Design BriefDesign Brief

What is a design brief….What is a design brief….

‘‘It is a short, precise, clear statement that It is a short, precise, clear statement that summarises what is required of the design summarises what is required of the design task.task.’’

For example: I intend to design and manufacture a toy For example: I intend to design and manufacture a toy for a five year old.for a five year old.

The brief should be written based on a problem or need.The brief should be written based on a problem or need.

I intend to design and manufacture….I intend to design and manufacture….

SpecificationSpecificationWhen designing a product, a designer has to make sure that it meets the design When designing a product, a designer has to make sure that it meets the design specification.specification.A specification is a statement that tells the designer exactly what the product has to A specification is a statement that tells the designer exactly what the product has to do and what the design requirements are. A specification will always:do and what the design requirements are. A specification will always:

• Describe what the product has to doDescribe what the product has to do• Describe what the product will look likeDescribe what the product will look like• Include details of any other requirementsInclude details of any other requirements

In detail, a specification should include the following information about the product:In detail, a specification should include the following information about the product:

• The main function of the productThe main function of the product• The main overall dimensions of the productThe main overall dimensions of the product• The main materials which are likely to be usedThe main materials which are likely to be used• An outline of the appearance of the productAn outline of the appearance of the product• User requirementsUser requirements• How anthropometrics and ergonomics effect the designHow anthropometrics and ergonomics effect the design• The cost of the productThe cost of the product• Possible production levels - one-off, batch, mass productionPossible production levels - one-off, batch, mass production• Legal requirements which may have to be metLegal requirements which may have to be met• Environmental considerations and requirementsEnvironmental considerations and requirements• Moral, social and cultural issuesMoral, social and cultural issues

AAestheticsesthetics

CCostost

CCustomerustomer

EEnvironmentnvironment

SSizeize

SSafetyafety

FFunctionunction

MMaterialaterial

Do not forget you Do not forget you can use the can use the acronym ACCESS acronym ACCESS FM to outline the FM to outline the majority of points.majority of points.

AAesthetics -esthetics -

CCost - ost -

CCustomer -ustomer -

EEnvironment -nvironment -

SSize -ize -

SSafety -afety -

FFunction -unction -

MMaterial -aterial -

Does the Product look good? Does it make use of its shape, colour, finish, Does the Product look good? Does it make use of its shape, colour, finish, texture etc? What has inspired ittexture etc? What has inspired it’’s appearance?s appearance?

What do you expect the product to cost to produce? How much is the retail price? What do you expect the product to cost to produce? How much is the retail price? How are the answers related? Is it value for money?How are the answers related? Is it value for money?

Who is it designed for? How is your product promoted to attract the customers Who is it designed for? How is your product promoted to attract the customers attention? Will it have a positive impact on the customers way of life? How?attention? Will it have a positive impact on the customers way of life? How?

What is the products impact on the environment? What happens when it is no What is the products impact on the environment? What happens when it is no longer needed? Think about the three R rule, reduce, reuse, recycle.longer needed? Think about the three R rule, reduce, reuse, recycle.

Is the product/packaging suitable for the product and its use? Would it look or Is the product/packaging suitable for the product and its use? Would it look or function better if it were changed? function better if it were changed?

Have you considered safety issues needed? Will there need to be warnings Have you considered safety issues needed? Will there need to be warnings stated? Will the way it is going to be used change the safety?stated? Will the way it is going to be used change the safety?

Does the product or packaging do what it is intended to do?Does the product or packaging do what it is intended to do?

What material will it be made from? Would a different material work better? What material will it be made from? Would a different material work better? Will the choice of material have a direct impact on the environment?Will the choice of material have a direct impact on the environment?

ErgonomicsErgonomicsWhatever you are designing, it must fit the person it is Whatever you are designing, it must fit the person it is design for (usually called the customer / client). Adults design for (usually called the customer / client). Adults and children come in all shapes and sizes. We all like or and children come in all shapes and sizes. We all like or dislike colours, texture, sounds, tastes, flavours, forms dislike colours, texture, sounds, tastes, flavours, forms and shapes. and shapes.

Consequently, when we design products, factors such as Consequently, when we design products, factors such as these should be kept in mind. When designing a toy there these should be kept in mind. When designing a toy there are a number of points to consider. Children learn from are a number of points to consider. Children learn from sound, sight, colour, movement and other aspects. These sound, sight, colour, movement and other aspects. These all contribute to the ergonomics or anthropometrics of a all contribute to the ergonomics or anthropometrics of a design.design.

ERGONOMICSERGONOMICS is mainly concerned is mainly concerned with working out measurements, in with working out measurements, in order to improve the design of order to improve the design of products.products.

AnthropometricsAnthropometrics

EthnicityEthnicityheight, size, weight, and height, size, weight, and body segment proportionbody segment proportion

GenderGenderheight, size, weight, strength, height, size, weight, strength, and body segment proportionand body segment proportion

AgeAgeheight, size, weight, strength, height, size, weight, strength, and body segment proportionand body segment proportion

AnthropometricsAnthropometrics is the name given to the study of the physical sizes and shapes of people is the name given to the study of the physical sizes and shapes of people in relation to the design of products. For example, chairs used in schools need to be suitable in relation to the design of products. For example, chairs used in schools need to be suitable for most of the sizes of pupils in the schools.for most of the sizes of pupils in the schools.It enables designers to design and manufacture products that It enables designers to design and manufacture products that ‘‘fitfit’’ the user. the user.

Accurate data on height, weight, limb, and body segment sizes are needed to design items Accurate data on height, weight, limb, and body segment sizes are needed to design items ranging from clothing, furniture, automobiles, buses, and subway cars to space shuttles and ranging from clothing, furniture, automobiles, buses, and subway cars to space shuttles and space stations.space stations.

The three main areas (parameters) that need to be taken into consideration are:The three main areas (parameters) that need to be taken into consideration are:

EvaluationsEvaluationsDesigners evaluate their finished products or prototypes in order to test whether they work well and if the Designers evaluate their finished products or prototypes in order to test whether they work well and if the design can be corrected or improved. Whatever you have designed it is important to evaluate your work design can be corrected or improved. Whatever you have designed it is important to evaluate your work constantly during the project. constantly during the project. Evaluation can take a variety of forms: Evaluation can take a variety of forms: General discussion with other pupils, staff and others.General discussion with other pupils, staff and others.Questionnaires / surveys carried out at any time during the project.Questionnaires / surveys carried out at any time during the project.Your personal views, what you think of existing designs.Your personal views, what you think of existing designs.Most important of all - what do you think of your designs, prototypes and finished products ?Most important of all - what do you think of your designs, prototypes and finished products ?Can you think of any other ways of evaluating your work ?Can you think of any other ways of evaluating your work ? CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING POINTS WHEN WRITING YOUR FINAL EVALUATIONCONSIDER THE FOLLOWING POINTS WHEN WRITING YOUR FINAL EVALUATION 1. What do you think of the overall design ? What changes would you make ?1. What do you think of the overall design ? What changes would you make ?2. Are you happy with the materials you chose ? Would you make adjustments next time ?2. Are you happy with the materials you chose ? Would you make adjustments next time ?3. Is the colour scheme exactly what you expected ? What alterations would you make ?3. Is the colour scheme exactly what you expected ? What alterations would you make ?4. Did the project take too long to make ? Would this alter the cost of manufacture ?4. Did the project take too long to make ? Would this alter the cost of manufacture ?5. Would it be easy to set up a production line for the manufacture of your solution ?5. Would it be easy to set up a production line for the manufacture of your solution ?6. Is your solution safe ? Could it be made safer ?6. Is your solution safe ? Could it be made safer ?7. Are the techniques you used to make your solution adequate or would you use a different range of 7. Are the techniques you used to make your solution adequate or would you use a different range of manufacturing techniques ?manufacturing techniques ?8. Is the solution the right size/shape ?8. Is the solution the right size/shape ?9. What are the views of other people regarding your design ?9. What are the views of other people regarding your design ?10. Does it work ? What changes are required ?10. Does it work ? What changes are required ? The final evaluation is often neglected because it is the last part to any design and make project. Do not The final evaluation is often neglected because it is the last part to any design and make project. Do not make the mistake of completing it quickly or not doing it all as it counts for a lot of marks.make the mistake of completing it quickly or not doing it all as it counts for a lot of marks.

Packaging symbolsPackaging symbolsPackaging symbols are widely used to clearly and easily show a certain way in which that Packaging symbols are widely used to clearly and easily show a certain way in which that product should be handled or cared for. Below are just a few common examples: product should be handled or cared for. Below are just a few common examples:

Keep Britain tidy sign to remind people to not Keep Britain tidy sign to remind people to not drop litter on the floor.drop litter on the floor.

POLYTHENE TEREPHTHALATE (PET) is POLYTHENE TEREPHTHALATE (PET) is a material widely used for packaging, a material widely used for packaging, especially drinks containers. It is 90% especially drinks containers. It is 90% recyclable.recyclable.

The symbols here, represent that the product The symbols here, represent that the product inside has been tested to British and European inside has been tested to British and European safety standards. These symbols that are normally safety standards. These symbols that are normally applied to non-food products such as electronic applied to non-food products such as electronic products or toys. products or toys.

Created in 1988, when the Lion mark is Created in 1988, when the Lion mark is displayed on a product it means that the displayed on a product it means that the manufacturer/retailer has agreed to the manufacturer/retailer has agreed to the ‘‘British British Toy and Hobby AssociationsToy and Hobby Associations’’ Code of practice. Code of practice.

A symbol that is occasionally seen on A symbol that is occasionally seen on packaging is the Fair Trade symbol. It means packaging is the Fair Trade symbol. It means the farmer has received a fair price for the the farmer has received a fair price for the contents.contents.

These are internationally recognisable symbols for These are internationally recognisable symbols for recycling. They are seen on many packages. recycling. They are seen on many packages. Again, it is to remind the consumer of the potential Again, it is to remind the consumer of the potential recycling properties of the package he/she is about recycling properties of the package he/she is about to throw away. It is aimed at encouraging the to throw away. It is aimed at encouraging the consumer to recycling packaging rather than consumer to recycling packaging rather than throwing it into a general rubbish bin.throwing it into a general rubbish bin.

This symbol is often found on the packaging for This symbol is often found on the packaging for batteries. The crossed lines means that the batteries. The crossed lines means that the batteries should not be disposed of in a dust bin batteries should not be disposed of in a dust bin after they have been used.after they have been used.

The broken wine glass suggests that the product The broken wine glass suggests that the product inside the packaging could be easily damaged if inside the packaging could be easily damaged if dropped or handled without care and attention. The dropped or handled without care and attention. The contents are fragile !contents are fragile !

This symbol reminds those handling the package This symbol reminds those handling the package to keep out of the rain and not to store it in damp to keep out of the rain and not to store it in damp conditions. it is normally found on card based conditions. it is normally found on card based packages which would be damaged if wet.packages which would be damaged if wet.

The symbol seen opposite tells those handling The symbol seen opposite tells those handling the package that it must be stored the right the package that it must be stored the right way up. The arrows point towards the top of way up. The arrows point towards the top of the packagethe package

The two hands holding or protecting the The two hands holding or protecting the package is another reminder that the package is another reminder that the contents should be handled with carecontents should be handled with care

Moral social and cultural issuesMoral social and cultural issues

Moral issuesMoral issues are key points that the designer has to make to decide if are key points that the designer has to make to decide if something could be dangerous or controversial. They are not covered something could be dangerous or controversial. They are not covered by any law or design regulation, and are usually related to a specific by any law or design regulation, and are usually related to a specific target market. For example, a poster designed to help discourage target market. For example, a poster designed to help discourage teenagers to stop taking dangerous drugs would be morally correct.teenagers to stop taking dangerous drugs would be morally correct.

Social issuesSocial issues relate to the type of advertisement or promotion of relate to the type of advertisement or promotion of products for use or consumption that may not be in the interest of the products for use or consumption that may not be in the interest of the general consumer. These are related to the wider public in general. general consumer. These are related to the wider public in general. For example, the promotion of fast food, high sugar sweets and For example, the promotion of fast food, high sugar sweets and drinks.drinks.

Cultural issuesCultural issues are quite specific to the product and its advertising or are quite specific to the product and its advertising or packaging. They are quite dependant on the actual target market. For packaging. They are quite dependant on the actual target market. For example, most packaging for vegetarian products will have a large example, most packaging for vegetarian products will have a large green green ‘‘VV’’ in a prominent place to show that it has no animal products. in a prominent place to show that it has no animal products.

Key designersKey designersThere are literally millions of designers around the globe yet some are a lot more There are literally millions of designers around the globe yet some are a lot more influential than others. Most people have their own influential designers due to taste, influential than others. Most people have their own influential designers due to taste, likes and dislikes but all designers are influenced by the past present and what they likes and dislikes but all designers are influenced by the past present and what they think the future should or could look like.think the future should or could look like.

You need to be able to recognise some key designers and their work so that you know You need to be able to recognise some key designers and their work so that you know and understand the impact they have had on current designers and work. Below are a and understand the impact they have had on current designers and work. Below are a few key designers that you will need to research and know and understand a little bit few key designers that you will need to research and know and understand a little bit about for your final exam:about for your final exam:

• Harry Beck – Harry Beck – Was an English Engineering Draftsman. He crated the iconic and very Was an English Engineering Draftsman. He crated the iconic and very distinctive London underground map whilst working at the London Underground signals distinctive London underground map whilst working at the London Underground signals office in 1933.office in 1933.

Although it was a very radical design, looking like an electrical wiring circuit diagram, Although it was a very radical design, looking like an electrical wiring circuit diagram, rather than a map, it proved to be a huge success and although changes have been rather than a map, it proved to be a huge success and although changes have been made since the original version, the current map is still very close to the original.made since the original version, the current map is still very close to the original.

Many other companies around the world use his Designer of the famous London Many other companies around the world use his Designer of the famous London underground map making it simple and easy to read.underground map making it simple and easy to read.

Key DesignersKey Designers•Alberto Alessi - Alberto Alessi - The Italian design manager joined the family company of making metal The Italian design manager joined the family company of making metal kitchenware as design manager after training to be a lawyer.kitchenware as design manager after training to be a lawyer. His vision was to combine mass His vision was to combine mass production with good design creativity and craftsmanship, so that well designed and stylish production with good design creativity and craftsmanship, so that well designed and stylish products could be made available for everyone.products could be made available for everyone.

Alessi’s main contribution to design is not based on products he designed, yet his whole Alessi’s main contribution to design is not based on products he designed, yet his whole philosophy about products that inspired the likes of Philippe Starck and Alessandro Mendini to philosophy about products that inspired the likes of Philippe Starck and Alessandro Mendini to come up with stylish, creative and interesting products that could appeal to everyone. Alessi come up with stylish, creative and interesting products that could appeal to everyone. Alessi wanted his company to be an ideas factory.wanted his company to be an ideas factory.

• Jock Kinnear and Margaret Calvert -Jock Kinnear and Margaret Calvert - The road signs in the 1950’s were very hit and miss and The road signs in the 1950’s were very hit and miss and finding your way became dangerous. Jock and Margaret first developed the ‘finding your way became dangerous. Jock and Margaret first developed the ‘ typefacetypeface’ they ’ they would use called would use called sans serif sans serif before adopting the idea of using pictograms (a 2D block coloured before adopting the idea of using pictograms (a 2D block coloured picture that explains a meaning or warning) to help “everyone” understand the possible picture that explains a meaning or warning) to help “everyone” understand the possible warnings. The colours used were also there idea as they thought they are a simple yet bold warnings. The colours used were also there idea as they thought they are a simple yet bold enough colour to easily read and see.enough colour to easily read and see.

Key Designers•Wally Olins -Wally Olins - Branding is a logo or image that is associated by the public with a product. Branding is a logo or image that is associated by the public with a product. Companies use graphic design to promote their products through a branding or corporate Companies use graphic design to promote their products through a branding or corporate image. Wally is a brand consultant that has helped companies like P&O and BT develop a image. Wally is a brand consultant that has helped companies like P&O and BT develop a very successful corporate identity.very successful corporate identity.

Great examples of these are Nike’s tick and Cadbury’s glass and a half of milk.Great examples of these are Nike’s tick and Cadbury’s glass and a half of milk.

• Robert Sabuda -Robert Sabuda - Used to love pop-up books as a child and as a result taught himself paper Used to love pop-up books as a child and as a result taught himself paper engineering; precise accurate mechanisms made from paper, and specially designed to engineering; precise accurate mechanisms made from paper, and specially designed to enable the desired actions to take place. enable the desired actions to take place.

After working for several publishers, Robert published his own books himself. He has won After working for several publishers, Robert published his own books himself. He has won many awards and prizes for his unique, fun and style of pop-up books, cards etc. that are many awards and prizes for his unique, fun and style of pop-up books, cards etc. that are enjoyed the world over.enjoyed the world over.

EquipmentEquipment

Compass Compass pointpoint

BladeBlade

ScaleScale

HandleHandle

Locking Locking nutnut

A A drawing compassdrawing compass is a drawing is a drawing tool that can draw circles and tool that can draw circles and arcs (incomplete circles) on arcs (incomplete circles) on sketches and diagramssketches and diagrams

A A circle template circle template is used as is used as a guide or template for a guide or template for drawing circles with different drawing circles with different diameters without the use of diameters without the use of a compass.a compass.

A A circle cutter circle cutter is used is used to cut the circle out to cut the circle out directly rather than directly rather than drawing it first. You drawing it first. You set the diameter just set the diameter just like a compass and like a compass and use the blade to draw use the blade to draw and cut the circle out.and cut the circle out.

A A rotary cutter rotary cutter looks very looks very similar to a pizza cutter and is similar to a pizza cutter and is used in the same way, used in the same way, however, as the blade is very however, as the blade is very sharp it is used to cut through sharp it is used to cut through fabric, card and paper. You fabric, card and paper. You can change the blade to suit can change the blade to suit your desired edge, for your desired edge, for example wavy or dotted.example wavy or dotted.

A A scalpel or hobby knifescalpel or hobby knife is a sharp knife used for is a sharp knife used for cutting through card or cutting through card or paper giving it a clean paper giving it a clean and neat edge. Most and neat edge. Most allow you to change the allow you to change the blade when it becomes blade when it becomes blunt.blunt.

These are just a few of the different These are just a few of the different equipment pieces that could be equipment pieces that could be used whilst making your products. used whilst making your products. Be sure to look for and revise them Be sure to look for and revise them all though.all though.

Sketching/drawing techniquesSketching/drawing techniques

The The thick and thin linethick and thin line technique is easy to technique is easy to remember - If you can see both of the faces (or remember - If you can see both of the faces (or sides) which make up the edge of the shape sides) which make up the edge of the shape then draw a thin line to represent it. If you can then draw a thin line to represent it. If you can only see one side, draw a thick line.only see one side, draw a thick line.

IsometricIsometric is the best method of showing three is the best method of showing three dimensional (or dimensional (or pictorialpictorial) views of an object and can be ) views of an object and can be done using freehand or drawing equipment.done using freehand or drawing equipment.

When drawing in isometric, ensure that:When drawing in isometric, ensure that:

• All upright lines remain uprightAll upright lines remain upright

• All horizontal lines are at 30°All horizontal lines are at 30°

• All measurements remain the same (full size as given)All measurements remain the same (full size as given)

30°30° 30°30°

Sketching/drawing techniquesSketching/drawing techniquesOrthographic drawingsOrthographic drawings contain all the information needed to make an item. Therefore this information must contain all the information needed to make an item. Therefore this information must be accurate.be accurate.

Orthographic drawings usually show three views of the object:Orthographic drawings usually show three views of the object:

• The The plan plan (from above)(from above)

• The The front elevationfront elevation (front view) (front view)

• The The side elevation side elevation (side/end view)(side/end view)

The way orthographic drawings are laid out is defined by a The way orthographic drawings are laid out is defined by a British drawing StandardBritish drawing Standard. This standard is . This standard is BS8888BS8888. You need to ensure that your dimensioning is done to BS8888 in order to gain full marks.. You need to ensure that your dimensioning is done to BS8888 in order to gain full marks.

Third angle projection is the standard layout you will be expected to use in the exam. Third angle projection is the standard layout you will be expected to use in the exam. Always make sure Always make sure that the view you see from the right of the original object (front view) is drawn on the right. The that the view you see from the right of the original object (front view) is drawn on the right. The view from the left is drawn on the left and what you see from above is drawn above (the front view).view from the left is drawn on the left and what you see from above is drawn above (the front view).

3rd angle 3rd angle projection symbolprojection symbol

A simple example A simple example of a 3rd angle of a 3rd angle orthographic orthographic projectionprojection

Hidden detail is shown as Hidden detail is shown as dotted lines.dotted lines.

Sketching/drawing techniques

One and two point perspective One and two point perspective is based on the fact is based on the fact that all lines will meet at either one or two vanishing that all lines will meet at either one or two vanishing points.points.

One point perspectiveOne point perspective is made using one vanishing is made using one vanishing point. All horizontal lines meet together at point. All horizontal lines meet together at one one vanishing point. A good example of this is when vanishing point. A good example of this is when you look down the railway line or straight road and you look down the railway line or straight road and the lines all seem to meet at one point as the image the lines all seem to meet at one point as the image opposite suggests.opposite suggests.

Two point perspectiveTwo point perspective is a little more complicated is a little more complicated as there are no horizontal lines. Instead, all non-as there are no horizontal lines. Instead, all non-vertical lines should be drawn going to either one of vertical lines should be drawn going to either one of the the twotwo vanishing points on the horizon as shown in vanishing points on the horizon as shown in the diagram to the right.the diagram to the right.

Types of line / DimensioningTypes of line / DimensioningThere are lots of different There are lots of different line typesline types that are needed when drawing in graphics. The that are needed when drawing in graphics. The main ones you will need to know are:main ones you will need to know are:

Outlines - Thick and continuousOutlines - Thick and continuous

Section / Projection lines - Thinner than outlinesSection / Projection lines - Thinner than outlines

Center lines - Chain, long then short dashCenter lines - Chain, long then short dash

Hidden detail - Short continuous dashesHidden detail - Short continuous dashes

Dimension Lines - Lighter than outlines with Dimension Lines - Lighter than outlines with arrow heads that touch the line it meets.arrow heads that touch the line it meets.

Cutting line - Long line followed by two short dashesCutting line - Long line followed by two short dashes

DimensioningDimensioning correctly means you need to keep to the British Standard 8888. This states correctly means you need to keep to the British Standard 8888. This states that your dimension needs to written be above the line but not touching it or the drawing. If that your dimension needs to written be above the line but not touching it or the drawing. If it is from the side then it needs to be able to be read from the right.it is from the side then it needs to be able to be read from the right.

205205 205

205 From the rightFrom the rightDimensions are always in Dimensions are always in

millimetres.millimetres.

Information DrawingInformation DrawingInformation can be described in a Information can be described in a number of different ways but it is number of different ways but it is sometimes easiest to see and read sometimes easiest to see and read in a graphical form.in a graphical form.

Data is probably best represented through the use of Data is probably best represented through the use of charts or graphs as it is simple to understand and easy to charts or graphs as it is simple to understand and easy to conclude from. It can be represented in a number of ways:conclude from. It can be represented in a number of ways:

• Bar chartsBar charts - great for showing comparisons - great for showing comparisons

• Pie chartsPie charts - great for showing proportions - great for showing proportions

• Line graphsLine graphs - used to show the changes in data - used to show the changes in data

• PictographsPictographs - using symbols that the information refers to, - using symbols that the information refers to, to represent data.to represent data.

Signs and labels Signs and labels are around or attached to are around or attached to everything we interact with on a day to day basis. everything we interact with on a day to day basis. The majority of The majority of signssigns are there to give us instructions are there to give us instructions or warnings about certain things. These need to be or warnings about certain things. These need to be eye-catching and clear. Good examples are road eye-catching and clear. Good examples are road work signs.work signs.

LabelsLabels tend to explain a lot about the things we buy tend to explain a lot about the things we buy or use giving us clear information. Great examples of or use giving us clear information. Great examples of these are barcodes, nutritional information, washing these are barcodes, nutritional information, washing instructions on clothes and ingredients on food instructions on clothes and ingredients on food packaging.packaging.

Corporate identity Corporate identity is the primary method of making an is the primary method of making an organisation identifiable using only visual images that can organisation identifiable using only visual images that can be easily remembered.be easily remembered.

Most companies use a Most companies use a logo logo to help the general public to help the general public recognise them. This is usually a combination of type and recognise them. This is usually a combination of type and symbols however, there are several different types of symbols however, there are several different types of logo:logo:

• LogogramsLogograms - use the initial letters of an organisation. - use the initial letters of an organisation.

• SymbolsSymbols - use a simplified image. - use a simplified image.

• LogotypesLogotypes - use a different typeface. - use a different typeface.

• BackgroundBackground - an image used to communicate - an image used to communicate information to the customer.information to the customer.

Symbols Symbols are visual images used to communicate are visual images used to communicate information to help people. There are three different information to help people. There are three different types of symbols:types of symbols:• Enactive or actionEnactive or action - Showing something - Showing something happening.happening.• Iconic or pictorialIconic or pictorial - Wordless simplified images - Wordless simplified images (often called pictograms)(often called pictograms)• Symbolic or abstractSymbolic or abstract - To represent something we - To represent something we can recognise from the concept the image is can recognise from the concept the image is portraying.portraying.

IdeogramsIdeograms are simplified images or pictures which are simplified images or pictures which relate to other people or things. For example, you relate to other people or things. For example, you would relate a picture of a plate, knife and fork to would relate a picture of a plate, knife and fork to somewhere you can eat.somewhere you can eat.

MaterialsMaterialsFoam boardFoam board is rigid foam is rigid foam sandwiched between two sandwiched between two pieces of heavy paper. It pieces of heavy paper. It comes in a variety of comes in a variety of colours and finishes. It is colours and finishes. It is usually used for POS and usually used for POS and model making.model making.

PaperPaper is used very widely is used very widely for most items and for most items and graphic products. It graphic products. It comes in a wide range of comes in a wide range of finishes and sizes finishes and sizes depending on the depending on the situation needed. For situation needed. For example, A0 is sixteen example, A0 is sixteen times the size of A4.times the size of A4.

CardCard is also available in a is also available in a large variety of colours, large variety of colours, finishes and sizes, finishes and sizes, depending on the depending on the situation. They can also situation. They can also come textured if required.come textured if required.

Corrugated cardCorrugated card is used widely is used widely for packaging as it is strong and for packaging as it is strong and gives rigid support for the gives rigid support for the products inside. The internal products inside. The internal structure differs depending on structure differs depending on the situation it is needed for.the situation it is needed for.

StyrofoamStyrofoam is used a lot for is used a lot for model making as it is very model making as it is very dense and easily dense and easily manipulated making it very manipulated making it very versatile for lots of designs.versatile for lots of designs.

Corriflute (polypropylene Corriflute (polypropylene corrugated board)corrugated board), is similar , is similar to corrugated carboard in its to corrugated carboard in its structure but made from structure but made from plastic and used a square plastic and used a square structure instead of a wavy structure instead of a wavy form. It is used mainly for form. It is used mainly for packaging or POS displays.packaging or POS displays.

This is only a selection. You need to revise more.This is only a selection. You need to revise more.

Paper and BoardPaper and BoardThe main factors that are taken The main factors that are taken into account when choosing a into account when choosing a paper or board are:paper or board are:

• CostCost

• FinishFinish

• StrengthStrength

• Brightness (whiteness)Brightness (whiteness)

• ThicknessThickness

PaperPaper is sold by weight in grams per square metre is sold by weight in grams per square metre ((gsmgsm). When it gets to 220 gsm it is considered ). When it gets to 220 gsm it is considered board.board.

Board (card) is measured in microns (µm). There Board (card) is measured in microns (µm). There are 1000 microns in 1 mm. A typical birthday card is are 1000 microns in 1 mm. A typical birthday card is about 300 microns thick.about 300 microns thick.

Virgin paperVirgin paper makes up 90% of all paper and the remaining 10% makes up 90% of all paper and the remaining 10% has some recycled content. Virgin paper tends to be stronger and has some recycled content. Virgin paper tends to be stronger and generally used for food containers, helping to reduce generally used for food containers, helping to reduce contamination risk.contamination risk.

Corriflute or CorrexCorriflute or Correx is a fluted plastic board is a fluted plastic board (similar to corrugated board) and used mainly (similar to corrugated board) and used mainly for exterior purposes as it is light and strong but for exterior purposes as it is light and strong but also weather resistant. A common use for this also weather resistant. A common use for this material is estate agent for sale boards.material is estate agent for sale boards.

Foam boardFoam board is generally between 4000-7000 is generally between 4000-7000 microns thick and is made from two outer layers of microns thick and is made from two outer layers of high-quality card and a central layer of foam. It high-quality card and a central layer of foam. It has quite a high cost ratio in comparison to other has quite a high cost ratio in comparison to other materials and is generally used for presentation materials and is generally used for presentation boards.boards.

Corrugated cardCorrugated card is a very common type of is a very common type of boards used mainly for packaging protection boards used mainly for packaging protection and point of sale stands. This is due to the card and point of sale stands. This is due to the card being quite thick, between 3000-5000 microns, being quite thick, between 3000-5000 microns, giving it a strong yet fairly lightweight giving it a strong yet fairly lightweight construction.construction.

Plastics

95 percent of all plastics are made from the non-95 percent of all plastics are made from the non-renewable and environmental renewable and environmental unfriendlyunfriendly material - oil. material - oil. The other 5 percent is made from animal and vegetable The other 5 percent is made from animal and vegetable matter which is biodegradable and therefore matter which is biodegradable and therefore environmentally environmentally friendly.friendly.

Plastics are widely used in packaging due to their large Plastics are widely used in packaging due to their large list of benefits. These include:list of benefits. These include:

• Tough Tough - so that the product is protected.- so that the product is protected.

• LightweightLightweight - So that the product is not made to be - So that the product is not made to be heavy.heavy.

• ClearClear - So that the consumer can see the product - So that the consumer can see the product inside.inside.

• EconomicalEconomical - Easily available and easy to make - Easily available and easy to make packaging from.packaging from.

• Aesthetically usefulAesthetically useful - It is easy to be made to look - It is easy to be made to look good and can be printed on.good and can be printed on.

There are many different types of plastics There are many different types of plastics used for packaging, each with their own used for packaging, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Most of advantages and disadvantages. Most of them come with their own distinct recycling them come with their own distinct recycling sign stating what type of plastic it is, as sign stating what type of plastic it is, as shown below.shown below.There are however, 8 main different types of There are however, 8 main different types of thermoplastic used in packaging. These are thermoplastic used in packaging. These are stated below and highlighted in Yellow. stated below and highlighted in Yellow.

It is now It is now your jobyour job now to find out a little more now to find out a little more information about each one.information about each one.

PETE - Polyethylene TerephthalatePETE - Polyethylene TerephthalateHDPE - High Density PolyethyleneHDPE - High Density PolyethyleneV - Expanded Polystyrene / StyrofoamV - Expanded Polystyrene / StyrofoamPVC - Polyvinyl ChloridePVC - Polyvinyl ChlorideLDPE - Low Density PolyethyleneLDPE - Low Density PolyethylenePP - PolypropylenePP - PolypropylenePS - PolystyrenePS - PolystyreneOther - All other recyclable plasticsOther - All other recyclable plasticsAcrylicAcrylicCellulose AcetateCellulose AcetateBioplasticBioplastic

Shaping and forming plasticsVacuum formingVacuum forming is used to create fairly simple is used to create fairly simple hollow shapes using a heated plastic such as hollow shapes using a heated plastic such as polystyrene or PVC.polystyrene or PVC.

An accurate former or mould is made first of all with An accurate former or mould is made first of all with the same detail that you want the finished plastic the same detail that you want the finished plastic form to have. This former is then placed at the form to have. This former is then placed at the bottom of the vacuum former. bottom of the vacuum former.

The plastic is then clamped in place above the The plastic is then clamped in place above the mould and heated up until it softens. The plastic mould and heated up until it softens. The plastic must not touch the former at this stage. must not touch the former at this stage.

The former or mould is then raised into the heated The former or mould is then raised into the heated plastic sheet before the air is sucked or vacuumed plastic sheet before the air is sucked or vacuumed out from underneath the former so that the plastic out from underneath the former so that the plastic takes the same shape as the former. The plastic is takes the same shape as the former. The plastic is then allowed to cool before the mould is taken out then allowed to cool before the mould is taken out leaving a hollow plastic shape the same as the leaving a hollow plastic shape the same as the former.former.

Injection mouldingInjection moulding is the most common process is the most common process used to shape many different ‘thermoplastics’ into used to shape many different ‘thermoplastics’ into the many different shapes of products and the many different shapes of products and packaging you see around you everyday.packaging you see around you everyday.

Injection moulding involves heating up plastic Injection moulding involves heating up plastic granules of a thermoplastic into a liquid and forcing granules of a thermoplastic into a liquid and forcing it into a metal mould before allowing it to cool and it into a metal mould before allowing it to cool and then solidify. This is then taken from the machine then solidify. This is then taken from the machine ready for it to be done again and again right after ready for it to be done again and again right after each other. each other.

Blow mouldingBlow moulding is the process in which plastic is is the process in which plastic is heated up and forced into a mould. heated up and forced into a mould. Compressed air is then forced into the mould Compressed air is then forced into the mould making the plastic expand into the same shape making the plastic expand into the same shape before cooling down and being released e.g. a before cooling down and being released e.g. a plastic drinks bottle.plastic drinks bottle.

PackagingPackagingThere are 5 main reasons for packaging:There are 5 main reasons for packaging:

• Stacking and storageStacking and storage• InformationInformation• ProtectProtect• PreservePreserve• PromotePromote

Stacking and storageStacking and storage is fairly critical to is fairly critical to ensure that a product is able to be stored ensure that a product is able to be stored and stacked on each other both in the and stacked on each other both in the warehouse or on the shop floor creating warehouse or on the shop floor creating less wasted space yet keeping the product less wasted space yet keeping the product safe inside. Some products however, have safe inside. Some products however, have over packagingover packaging - where too much - where too much packaging is used to help advertising; packaging is used to help advertising; under packagingunder packaging - where too little - where too little packaging is used and therefore doesnpackaging is used and therefore doesn’’t t protect the product; and protect the product; and deceptive deceptive packagingpackaging - where the package gives the - where the package gives the customer a false impression of the product customer a false impression of the product inside.inside.

InformationInformation is now a legal requirement on is now a legal requirement on most products, ensuring that the customer most products, ensuring that the customer knows exactly what the product is inside knows exactly what the product is inside the packaging and what it contains.the packaging and what it contains.

Protection Protection is key in order for the product to is key in order for the product to make it to the customers house in perfect make it to the customers house in perfect condition. Materials such as corrugated condition. Materials such as corrugated card, bubblewrap and expanded card, bubblewrap and expanded polystyrene are good examples.polystyrene are good examples.

Preserving Preserving is mainly used within food is mainly used within food packaging to keep the contents fresh and packaging to keep the contents fresh and edible. The packaging often acts as a edible. The packaging often acts as a barrier against air, therefore an airtight seal barrier against air, therefore an airtight seal is needed.is needed.

PromotionPromotion is a large part of ensuring that is a large part of ensuring that the product is bought by the customer. the product is bought by the customer. Large graphics and good use of bright Large graphics and good use of bright colours are often incorporated into the colours are often incorporated into the design of the packaging to help catch the design of the packaging to help catch the eye of the customer.eye of the customer.

Smart materialsSmart materials"Smart" materials respond to environmental stimuli with particular changes in some variables. For that "Smart" materials respond to environmental stimuli with particular changes in some variables. For that

reason they are often also called responsive materials. reason they are often also called responsive materials.

Depending on changes in some external conditions, "smart" materials change either their properties Depending on changes in some external conditions, "smart" materials change either their properties (mechanical, electrical, appearance), their structure or composition, or their functions. (mechanical, electrical, appearance), their structure or composition, or their functions.

Photochromic Photochromic materials change materials change colour in response to light.colour in response to light.They are colourless in a dark They are colourless in a dark place, and when sunlight or place, and when sunlight or ultraviolet radiation is applied ultraviolet radiation is applied molecular structure of the molecular structure of the material changes and it exhibits material changes and it exhibits colour. E.g. light sensitive colour. E.g. light sensitive sunglasses.sunglasses.

Thermochromic Thermochromic materials materials change colour depending change colour depending on their temperature. on their temperature. ‘‘ThermoThermo’’ means heat and means heat and ‘‘chromicchromic’’ means colour. means colour. E.g. temperature gauges.E.g. temperature gauges.

Electrochromic Electrochromic materialsmaterials change colour depending change colour depending on the amount of on the amount of electricity applied, for electricity applied, for example, liquid crystal example, liquid crystal displays (LCD) in clocks displays (LCD) in clocks or watches.or watches.

Hydrochromic Hydrochromic materials materials change colour depending change colour depending on the amount of water on the amount of water applied. For example, applied. For example, moisture testers for moisture testers for watering plants.watering plants.

Phosphorescent Phosphorescent materials absorb light materials absorb light energy during the day energy during the day and give this energy off and give this energy off at night. For example at night. For example watch hands that glow in watch hands that glow in the dark or glow in the the dark or glow in the dark stickers.dark stickers.

Modern MaterialsModern MaterialsA modern material A modern material is not is not ‘‘smartsmart’’ as it does not as it does not react to its surroundings but it is a new react to its surroundings but it is a new material that has been created within the last material that has been created within the last 50 years.50 years.

The greatest modern technology is within the The greatest modern technology is within the alternatives to the use of thermoplastics being alternatives to the use of thermoplastics being used within packaging and modeling.used within packaging and modeling.

Cornstarch PolymersCornstarch Polymers are derived made from are derived made from crops such as potatoes, corn and maize crops such as potatoes, corn and maize which are high in starch. They are used to which are high in starch. They are used to replace some of the oil based thermoplastics replace some of the oil based thermoplastics that are more commonly used in some food that are more commonly used in some food packaging as they are biodegradable packaging as they are biodegradable although not as versatile.although not as versatile.

PolymorphPolymorph is a unique plastic that is hard at is a unique plastic that is hard at room temperature yet can be softened at 60 room temperature yet can be softened at 60 degrees to be easily molded into any shape degrees to be easily molded into any shape needed. It can be machined when hard and needed. It can be machined when hard and returns to its hardened form when the heat returns to its hardened form when the heat is taken away.is taken away.

LyocellLyocell is a high strength paper fibre is a high strength paper fibre produced from wood pulp and is completely produced from wood pulp and is completely biodegradable within eight days if placed biodegradable within eight days if placed within damp conditions. It is used to make within damp conditions. It is used to make tea bags, envelopes and coffee filters.tea bags, envelopes and coffee filters.

PaperfoamPaperfoam is made from a combination of is made from a combination of starch based polymers and simple paper starch based polymers and simple paper fibres. This produces a material that is fibres. This produces a material that is scratch resistant and can be molded to scratch resistant and can be molded to form inserts to different packaging. It is form inserts to different packaging. It is fully biodegradable, weighs less than oil fully biodegradable, weighs less than oil based plastic and can be dyed to any based plastic and can be dyed to any colour.colour.

Nano technologyNano technology is a method of changing is a method of changing the atomic structure of materials to make the atomic structure of materials to make them better. For example, nano technology them better. For example, nano technology can make materials lighter, stronger, less can make materials lighter, stronger, less expensive. For example, manipulating expensive. For example, manipulating carbon to create a diamond.carbon to create a diamond.

PMCPMC (precious metal clays) are made of (precious metal clays) are made of 99.9% metal and 0.01% clay. This gives the 99.9% metal and 0.01% clay. This gives the metal an amazing ability to be shaped at metal an amazing ability to be shaped at room temperature. They are expensive room temperature. They are expensive however and used mainly by jewelers. however and used mainly by jewelers.

SustainabilitySustainabilitySustainabilitySustainability looks at the ways in which an item tackles the situation of making as looks at the ways in which an item tackles the situation of making as smaller an impact on the environment as possible.smaller an impact on the environment as possible.

Examples of this are:Examples of this are:

• Can the packaging be made from a more sustainable material? Does it have an Can the packaging be made from a more sustainable material? Does it have an impact on the environment?impact on the environment?

• Can technology be used to develop alternative energy sources to manufacture the Can technology be used to develop alternative energy sources to manufacture the item?item?

• Will the final product be priced to high for people to purchase it?Will the final product be priced to high for people to purchase it?

The six RThe six R’’s are used to help designers and manufacturers reduce the environmental impact s are used to help designers and manufacturers reduce the environmental impact that a product may have. These are:that a product may have. These are:

• RethinkRethink - Is there other solutions to make the product more environmentally friendly? - Is there other solutions to make the product more environmentally friendly?• RefuseRefuse - Will the consumer accept the item or refuse it due to it - Will the consumer accept the item or refuse it due to it ’’s sustainability issues?s sustainability issues?• ReduceReduce - Can the product use less energy or material to manufacture? Should the - Can the product use less energy or material to manufacture? Should the consumer buy a product that is not being sustainable?consumer buy a product that is not being sustainable?• Re-useRe-use - Can the product or packaging be re-used after its initial purchase? - Can the product or packaging be re-used after its initial purchase?• RepairRepair - Is the product repairable or is it designed to fail? - Is the product repairable or is it designed to fail?• RecycleRecycle - The last resort to all items really, but can the packaging or product be recycled to - The last resort to all items really, but can the packaging or product be recycled to become more efficient and sustainable?become more efficient and sustainable?

FlowchartsFlowchartsThere are three main flowchart shapes that would be used within a process or There are three main flowchart shapes that would be used within a process or flowchart for the manufacture of your product or any prototype you may need to flowchart for the manufacture of your product or any prototype you may need to suggest in your exam.suggest in your exam.

There are a lot more shapes used in large scale production runs, however these There are a lot more shapes used in large scale production runs, however these are the three main ones that you will need to know about.are the three main ones that you will need to know about.

TerminatorTerminator – This is – This is used to start and stop used to start and stop flowcharts.flowcharts.

ProcessProcess – This is – This is used for every used for every process throughout a process throughout a flowchart.flowchart.

DecisionDecision – This is – This is used for each used for each decision option within decision option within a flowchart.a flowchart.

There are many different processes for printing many different types of media.There are many different processes for printing many different types of media.

• Offset LithographyOffset Lithography

• LetterpressLetterpress

• GravureGravure

• Screen PrintingScreen Printing

• FlexographyFlexography

• Digital printingDigital printing

Physical products are still being printed on for all different purposes even though the Physical products are still being printed on for all different purposes even though the modern world is dominated by the world of the internet. We still need magazines, modern world is dominated by the world of the internet. We still need magazines, books, stationary, newspapers, plastic bags etc. for everyday use. books, stationary, newspapers, plastic bags etc. for everyday use.

All printing is the process of transferring text or images onto a substrate.All printing is the process of transferring text or images onto a substrate.

Printing ProcessesPrinting Processes

Parts of the printing processesParts of the printing processesThere are 3 main parts to any printing process. These There are 3 main parts to any printing process. These are :are :

• InkInk – These are generally a runny fluid that comes in – These are generally a runny fluid that comes in many different colours. They tend to have many different many different colours. They tend to have many different chemicals in them to help them set, dry quickly etc. chemicals in them to help them set, dry quickly etc. therefore they need good ventilation for health and therefore they need good ventilation for health and safety. The main colours are safety. The main colours are Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black.Black. These are more commonly known as These are more commonly known as CMYK CMYK (K meaning black - a key colour)(K meaning black - a key colour)

• Image CarriersImage Carriers – This is a physical component on – This is a physical component on which the image to be printed, is either cut, burnt or which the image to be printed, is either cut, burnt or machined.machined.

• SubstratesSubstrates – These are the products that are printed – These are the products that are printed upon.upon.

Offset lithographyOffset lithography

• Flat aluminium plates Flat aluminium plates (specially treated) (specially treated) • Photographically exposed Photographically exposed then wrapped around rollerthen wrapped around roller• Exposed parts attract waterExposed parts attract water• Non exposed parts allow ink Non exposed parts allow ink to stickto stick• Print onto plain roller to Print onto plain roller to reverse imagereverse image• Transfers to card or other Transfers to card or other materialsmaterials

Printing cardPrinting card

• Typically offset lithographic or gravure Typically offset lithographic or gravure process usedprocess used

• 4 process colours – yellow, magenta, cyan, 4 process colours – yellow, magenta, cyan, blackblack

• Varnishing, foil blocking, embossing are Varnishing, foil blocking, embossing are commoncommon

Gravure PrintingGravure Printing

Ink Trough

Doctor bladescrapes excessink from cylinder

Impression cylinder

Ink cells cut in cylinder

Paper

• Used for very large print Used for very large print runsruns

• Uses engraved platesUses engraved plates• Ink is held in recesses Ink is held in recesses

known as cellsknown as cells• Paper is pressed onto Paper is pressed onto

plate and ink is lifted plate and ink is lifted from cellsfrom cells

Printing terms•Process coloursProcess colours – yellow, magenta and cyan – yellow, magenta and cyan make full range of colours, black adds make full range of colours, black adds definition (and text)definition (and text)•Spot coloursSpot colours – mixed to exact colour – mixed to exact colour•Web offsetWeb offset – printed onto a roll (e.g. – printed onto a roll (e.g. newspapers)newspapers)•PlatePlate – has the image on, wraps around a – has the image on, wraps around a cylindercylinder•Offset cylinderOffset cylinder (or blanket cylinder) – (or blanket cylinder) – reverses imagereverses image•Impression cylinderImpression cylinder – presses paper onto – presses paper onto plateplate•VarnishVarnish – adds shine (or could apply a matt – adds shine (or could apply a matt finish) to print, sometimes in isolated areasfinish) to print, sometimes in isolated areas•SubstrateSubstrate – material to be printed e.g. paper – material to be printed e.g. paper

Other related processesOther related processes• Die-cuttingDie-cutting is the method most paper/card shapes are cut is the method most paper/card shapes are cut out (very similar to a pastry cutter). In the packaging industry out (very similar to a pastry cutter). In the packaging industry the cutter is known as a cutting forme.the cutter is known as a cutting forme.

• Foil blockingFoil blocking is a method of applying a very thin layer of is a method of applying a very thin layer of metal foil onto the surface to add a special effectmetal foil onto the surface to add a special effect

• EmbossingEmbossing is the method where the surface of the card is is the method where the surface of the card is pressed upwards to create a special effectpressed upwards to create a special effect

• VarnishingVarnishing gives a smooth and shiny finish to the image gives a smooth and shiny finish to the image making it look better and adding some protection.making it look better and adding some protection.

• Laminating Laminating provides a greater protection than simple provides a greater protection than simple varnish. It involves heat sealing a thin layer of a clear plastic varnish. It involves heat sealing a thin layer of a clear plastic to the printed surface.to the printed surface.

• A surface development A surface development is a 2D, or flat, version of an item is a 2D, or flat, version of an item that will be eventually assembled into a 3D object. that will be eventually assembled into a 3D object.

A few exam tipsA few exam tips

• Offset lithographyOffset lithography is the best answer is the best answer for any questions relating to the for any questions relating to the printing of card packaging.printing of card packaging.• FlexographyFlexography is the best answer for is the best answer for any question relating to the printing of any question relating to the printing of plastic film (such as carrier bags).plastic film (such as carrier bags).• PrintingPrinting is a is a finishingfinishing technique technique suitable for card and some other suitable for card and some other materials.materials.

Manufacturing methodsManufacturing methodsThere are quite a few different types of production methods although only a few There are quite a few different types of production methods although only a few would normally be used for graphic products. The main ones that you will need to would normally be used for graphic products. The main ones that you will need to understand are:understand are:

One-off productionOne-off production – This is where a single – This is where a single item is made for a certain or specific purpose. item is made for a certain or specific purpose. For example, a car with specific requirements For example, a car with specific requirements such as colour, interior, heated seats etc.such as colour, interior, heated seats etc.

Batch productionBatch production – This technique is used when an – This technique is used when an item is produced over a series of different item is produced over a series of different workstations stage by stage. For example, seasonal workstations stage by stage. For example, seasonal items as the company does not yet know the items as the company does not yet know the demand for the product.demand for the product.

Continuous productionContinuous production – This is, as the – This is, as the name suggests, a continuous production name suggests, a continuous production run that does not stop. It works 24/7, 365 run that does not stop. It works 24/7, 365 days a year and is used to produce items days a year and is used to produce items such as coca-cola cans.such as coca-cola cans.

Mass productionMass production – This is used to – This is used to produce standardised items on a very large produce standardised items on a very large scale yet is not a continuous run. For scale yet is not a continuous run. For example, this is used for chemical product example, this is used for chemical product on an assembly line.on an assembly line.

Design analysisDesign analysisTips for successful product design analysisTips for successful product design analysis

• Make sure you understand what the product actually does Make sure you understand what the product actually does and how it works.and how it works.• Learn carefully how products are made in industry - especially Learn carefully how products are made in industry - especially look at what materials are used and how they are cut, shaped, look at what materials are used and how they are cut, shaped, formed, joined and finished.formed, joined and finished.• Apply this knowledge to the product you are asked to analyse.Apply this knowledge to the product you are asked to analyse.• Think carefully about possible markets for different products: Think carefully about possible markets for different products: Who would buy the product? Why would they buy it? Where Who would buy the product? Why would they buy it? Where would it be used? Who would use the product?would it be used? Who would use the product?

CAD/CAMComputer Aided Design (CAD) - Computer Aided Design (CAD) - This is using the computers to assist the designer during This is using the computers to assist the designer during

the design process itself.the design process itself. Computers can be used very effectively when designing and making Computers can be used very effectively when designing and making graphic products. An example of the tasks that can be done are:graphic products. An example of the tasks that can be done are:

• Import imagesImport images• Continually edit and revise workContinually edit and revise work• Create animated sequencesCreate animated sequences• Create accurate models with real renderCreate accurate models with real render• Communicate designsCommunicate designs

These all help to save time and money, encourage experimentation and enable more These all help to save time and money, encourage experimentation and enable more information to be stored amongst other things.information to be stored amongst other things.

Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) -Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) - is the manufacturing process of the item through a is the manufacturing process of the item through a computer system. There are also lots of benefits of using IT in manufacturing processes. computer system. There are also lots of benefits of using IT in manufacturing processes. Some examples of these are:Some examples of these are:

• Simulate and test productsSimulate and test products• Monitor accurate costsMonitor accurate costs• Control machineryControl machinery• Control the flow of material used in manufacturingControl the flow of material used in manufacturing• Communicate informationCommunicate information• Improve health and safety.Improve health and safety.