Computer aided design

Episode 4: Design brief

Required Resources

• Computers with CAD software available for use
• Student Worksheets 3-4

Delivery

• Explain that students are going to examine how to manufacture a specific item for the British Army. Present Student Worksheets 3-4 which provide a design brief for the production of an Identification Tag holding the following information:
  • Blood type
  • Regimental number
  • Surname
  • Initials
  • Religion in a 2 letter code (RC, CE etc).
• Ask students to brainstorm design considerations for the identification tag. In turn students can write a design consideration on a post it note and bring it to the front of the class to create a task analysis, for example, they might suggest things like weight as a consideration - it can't be too heavy or it would be uncomfortable to wear.
• Students work on a CAD program to produce a design of the ID tag in 2d. Distribute Student Worksheet 3 which contains information on how to produce a design using CAD programs.
• Students should input their own information onto this tag. Student Worksheet 4 explains what information should be included on the tag.

Differentiation

Lower Ability:

If you are teaching a less able class it may be worthwhile producing a blank template in which students add their information. Lower ability students will also need much more guidance during the design process.

Higher Ability:

If higher ability students get to grips with the CAD process quickly they could be asked to produce 3 different designs and choose which they think is most effective.