Design · Higher
Modelling
7 cards · 5 quiz · 2 exam
Design & Manufacture · Higher · mrkellydt.co.uk
What you're learning in this topic
Learning intention WALT
We are learning about modelling, specifically to understand:
- how models are used to generate and explore, test and refine, and communicate
- the purpose of, and information gained from, test rigs and prototypes
- the use of computer models and simulations
- the benefits and drawbacks of rapid prototyping
Success criteria WILF
- I can explain how models are used to generate and explore, test and refine, and communicate
- I can describe the purpose of, and information gained from, test rigs and prototypes
- I can explain the use of computer models and simulations
- I can describe the benefits and drawbacks of rapid prototyping
Why model
Models are used through the whole design process to:
- Generate and explore: quick, low detail, communicate ideas that are hard to sketch.
- Test and refine: check ergonomics, key dimensions, moving parts, how parts fit, manufacturing details. More detailed and accurate as refinement goes on.
- Communicate: show the client the final appearance or function, gather market research.
Types of model
- Sketch model: fast, low cost, any scrap material (card, foam, wire, clay). Explores ideas, checks proportion and stability.
- Block model: solid, usually non-working, shows shape and form. Built up or carved from Styrofoam, MDF or clay. Often used to test ergonomics.
- Scale model: for things too big or small to model full size (buildings, sets). Checks proportion against users/surroundings and assembly. Keep the scale consistent and include a reference point.
- Computer-generated model: realistic, easy to change, test colours/materials, produce many drawings from one model, link to 3D printers and CNC machines, share digitally.
Higher: prototypes, test rigs, simulations HIGHER
- Prototype: looks and/or works like the final product. Used for user trials, functional testing, checking assembly and final changes before production.
- Test rig: replicates long-term use in a short time.
- Simulation: tests a design on screen (e.g. bridge loading, stress analysis) with no risk to users or the environment.
Exam link: model, stage and purpose HIGHER
| Model | Stage | What it tells the designer |
|---|---|---|
| Sketch model | Generate and explore | Shape and proportion, quickly in card or foam |
| Block model | Refine | True form; grip and ergonomics; shown to the client |
| Test model or rig | Test | Strength, function, durability, safety |
| Prototype | Final testing and communication | Flaws found in user trials; used for marketing |
| Scale model | Any | Proportion and assembly of large products |
| Computer model | Any | Stress analysis, colour changes, link to rapid prototyping |
In a "discuss" question, link each model to its stage, its purpose and the information gained.
Rapid prototyping HIGHER
Automated production of models or parts straight from CAD. Subtractive (CNC) uses the real material; additive (3D printing) can make complex forms traditional methods can't.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Reduces development time Accurate, full-size, can include moving parts Changes are quick to make No mould needed | Expensive hardware and software Staff training Can be slow for each part |
Key terms
| Sketch model | Quick, low-cost model from scrap materials to generate and explore ideas. |
|---|---|
| Block model | Solid, non-working model showing shape and form; often used to test ergonomics. |
| Scale model | Model at a different scale for objects too large or small to model full size. |
| Computer-generated model benefit | Easy to change, realistic, can produce drawings and link to CAM/3D printing. |
| Prototype | A model that looks and/or works like the final product, used for final testing before production. |
| Simulation | Computer testing of a design without risk to users or the environment. |
| Rapid prototyping drawback | High cost of equipment, software and training. |
Quick check
1. Which model would a designer use to test the comfort of a handle grip?
- Scale model
- Exploded drawing
- Sketch model of a different product
- Block model
Show answer
D: Block model. Block models show the true form and are often used to test ergonomics.
2. An architect shows a new school building to the council. Which model?
- Scale model
- Sketch model
- Block model
- Computer-generated model
Show answer
A: Scale model. Too large to model full size.
3. Why are sketch models used early in the design process?
- They show exactly what the final finish will be
- They are quick and low cost to make and change
- They are fully working and can be user tested
- They are used to set up mass production
Show answer
B: They are quick and low cost to make and change. Speed and low cost suit idea generation.
4. Which is a benefit of simulation?
- It uses the real material, so results are exact
- It needs no computer or special software
- Testing without risk to users or the environment
- It is always cheaper and quicker than sketching
Show answer
C: Testing without risk to users or the environment. Dangerous or destructive tests can be done virtually.
5. Additive rapid prototyping is especially useful because it…
- is always the fastest method for large parts
- does not need a CAD model to make the part
- produces parts in the final production material
- can make complex forms traditional methods cannot
Show answer
D: can make complex forms traditional methods cannot. Layer-by-layer building allows internal and complex shapes.
Exam-style questions
1. Identify two types of model and describe how they could be used in the design process. (4 marks)
Show marking guidance
- 1 mark per correct type, 1 mark per use
- Sketch model: quickly generate/explore ideas or check proportions
- Block model: test ergonomics, show form
- Scale model: check proportion against users/environment
- CAD model: test colours/materials, share with team, link to CAM
2. Explain why it is useful for companies to create prototypes before beginning full production. (3 marks)
Show marking guidance
- Allows thorough testing of function/performance before investing in tooling (1)
- Can be used in user trials to check ergonomics and appeal to consumers (1)
- Identifies faults and assembly problems so final changes can be made, avoiding costly recalls (1)
Printable worksheet
An I do, we do, you do worksheet for this topic, with a separate answer sheet.