Design Communication

Freehand Drawing Definition: The spontaneous representation of ideas on paper without the use of technical aids.

Annotated Freehand Drawings Annotations explain the thinking behind the visual image represented by the drawing. They allow the designer to consider the implications of the ideas for further development.

2D and 3D freehand drawings Designers use a range of freehand drawings in the early stages of developing ideas to explore shape and form (3D) and construction details (2D).

Orthographic Drawing Definition: A series of flat views of an object showing it exactly as it is in shape and size (drawn to scale). An orthographic drawing shows details and dimensions and can be used as a production drawing.

Orthographic Drawing Here are two examples of orthographic drawing. One demonstrates the layout of a 3 rd angle projection and the other is a more complex drawing which includes dimensions and scale.

Orthographic Drawing Orthographic drawings are produced at the final solution stage and are used as working drawings for the realisation stage.

Isometric Drawing Definition: A three-dimensional representation of an object drawn with the horizontal plane at 30  ° to the vertical plane. An isometric drawing depicts the proposed solution in 3D showing shape and form.

Isometric Drawing 30° These are examples of isometric drawings. You will note that the horizontals are drawn at an angle of 30°. The vertical lines remain the same. An isometric drawing depicts the proposed solution in 3D showing shape and form.

Exploded Isometric Drawing Definition: An isometric drawing of an object with more than one component which depicts how the parts of assemblies fit together. The drawing is exploded to show particular features of the inside of the design.

Exploded Isometric Drawing Exploded isometric drawings are exploded to show component parts of a product and/or the sequence of assembly. 30° These exploded views are drawn as an isometric view. You can see that the horizontal lines have been drawn at an angle of 30°.

Perspective Drawing Definition: A three-dimensional drawing which realistically represents an object by utilising foreshortening and vanishing points (usually imaginary ones).

Perspective Drawing This simple two point perspective drawing shows the two vanishing points. Most realistic perspective drawings will show two vanishing points and are therefore known as two-point perspective drawings. In this more detailed perspective drawing of a building an architect can show a realistic view of his his/her intention. Perspective drawings and modeling are commonly used by architects.

Isometric and Perspective Drawings Compare the two drawings. What differences an similarities can you see between these two drawing styles?

Isometric and Perspective Drawings Perspective drawings take into account spatial arrangements, eg: foreshortening (objects that are far away will appear smaller). Isometric drawings are constructed to a set angle (30  ° to the horizontal). The depth can be shortened but the object does not decrease in size as it gets further away.

Computer-Aided Design Definition: The use of computers to aid the design process. Definition: A computer program that attempts to simulate an abstract model of a particular system. Computer Modelling

Computer-Aided Design and Modelling Computers and a variety of computer design programs can be used to communicate ideas, develop ideas and model ideas.

Computer-Aided Design and Modelling In industry Computers are used to model most products at some stage in the design and development process. This example shows the design development of a room modeled using CAD

Advantages and Disadvantages of CAD Advantages: Can interface with other aspects of ICT Professional appearance Create complex drawings Disadvantages: Need to have acquired the skills. Time consuming

Physical Models and Mathematical Models Models are representations of reality and can represent selected features of a design. Physical models may show form, shape and size. Mathematical models may show a process or sequence of actions.

Physical Models Physical models are made from raw materials and can be handled.

Physical Models This is an architectural model of a sports complex. The model is made using foam and foam board and has been constructed to scale. This is a true representation of the final design and allows the designer to view it before it is constructed.

Physical Models Models can be made using a variety of materials. These students are using wood, wire, foam, plaster, card and acrylic to model their designs. You should always select the most appropriate materials to create the most accurate model in preparation of testing

Physical Models Models should be able to be tested for aesthetics, size, weight and function. You can add lead weights to your model if you need to make it heavier. This is a clay model of a car. It is often necessary to begin modeling while you are developing your design ideas as the model can change as you develop it.

Mathematical Models Mathematical models use symbols that can be manipulated numerically.

Algorithm Definition: A sequence of instructions to describe a set of actions In Design algorithms are used to communicate a process. For example:, consider the operation of a lift. Correct sequencing is important with input, output, process and feedback.

Algorithm

Communicating a process Flow charts are commonly used to communicate a process. Correct use of symbols to represent activities is important as each symbol universally represents a specific activity. The activities represented as a symbol are process, input/output, decision, start/stop.

Flow Chart Symbols

Draw a simple flow chart to show the processes you would go through when getting ready for school in the morning.

Models: Advantages Designers use models for particular purposes, eg designers of prestige cars may use a full-size clay model of a car at the final concept stage of the design process because at full-size it gives a more realistic view of the intended design and clay allows the shape to be changed easily. Can you think of any other advantages?

Models: Limitations Designers can easily make assumptions about how accurately a model is representing reality, eg the model may not work like the final product or be made of the same material. Can you think of any other limitations?

Variety is key! Designers use a variety of drawing and modelling techniques to communicate their ideas and solutions to a problem. It is important that you can communicate in a wide variety of ways so that your ideas can be understood by yourself and other people.