OPTION C: CAD/CAM C8 – Social, Moral, Economic, and Environmental Aspects

Discuss how CAD allows for working 24 hours a day every day across time zones.  Consider global communication systems and how these can be used to enable 24 ‑ hour working in different nations.

Discuss how CAD allows for flexible working in any location.  Consider the use of laptops, mobile communication systems and the ability to work while on the move.

Outline how CAD has changed the role of the designer in the design process.  A designer multi-tasks,  For example… Creates a variety of models Integrates the business of design with the creative aspects.

Outline how CAD has changed the nature of the designer–client relationship.  Closer relationship  Exchange of information and ideas  Client more involved in the design process.

CAD has changed the nature of design education.  More scope for students  For example Sophisticated modelling techniques.

The effect of CAM on the labour force.  Consider…  Unemployment  24 ‑ hour working.

CAM has changed the type and range of product.  Consider accuracy  Sophistication  Reliability.

Some products are manufactured by CAM while others may be made using traditional manufacturing techniques.  Consider costs…  Complexity of outcome  Flexibility of workforce  Assembly  The use of mechanization.

Discuss how rapid prototyping and other CAM techniques reduce the use of natural resources.  Consider…  Additive manufacture  Reduced research and development  The manufacture of sample goods to be used in trials.

Implications of computerized manufacture on the infringement of copyright and patent laws.  Include ease of copying  Security  Changing designs.