Design and Fabrication

Unit 1 Principles of Design

Planning

Planning is a systematic, organized method of approaching a problem.Planning means following the design process.

The Design Process

Designing

Designing has three major components:

CreativeTechnicalAesthetics

Creative

The Creative component is the expression of a person’s ideas and is unique to the individual.

Technical

The Technical part is the application of technology to the resolution of the design idea.

Aesthetics

The Aesthetic quality of a design relates to how pleasing it is to look at.Aesthetic quality is determined by the mix of form, space, colour, line, texture, and light and shadow.

Principles of Aesthetic Design

Unity – or a feeling of wholenessVariety – a contrast in texture, line, and shadeEmphasis – used to point out particular detailsBalance – the appearance of equal weight for various components.Repetition – the use of a detail or element throughout the designRhythm – the repetition of lines and curves to give the feeling of movement.

Aesthetics Continued

All of these principles are used in various combinations to give a particular feeling to a design.There are two other devices used to promote a particular design concept, which are the materials used for the product and the type and style of surface decoration.

Good Design is Important

A good design expresses a persons creativity with a balance of technical quality, as represented by the functionality of the product, and of aesthetic quality.

Functionality

Is a measure of how well the product meets the needs as expressed in the design problem.E.g. A well constructed home vs. a tent to accommodate a family of five.

Ergonomics

Is the study of the design of objects, systems and environment for their safe and efficient use by people.It covers such things as touch, hold, lift, carry, manipulate, operate, sit or lie in, and wear (clothes).It takes into consideration heath and safety and comfort.It revolves around well designed and constructed ideas. E.g. a Pen

Three Factors of Ergonomics

Size – of the people who will use the designs. E.g. Airplane SeatsMovement – what types of movement they will make. E.g. a typistSenses – the reaction of the body to the to the design. E.g. Ergonomic keyboards and mouse pads help to avoid carpel tunnel syndrome.

Size

When designing for people you must take into account all of the measurements, which are important for the safe and comfortable use of a design. E.g. a stair case for a home.

Movement

Factors to address when considering movement.Natural body movements – avoid designs which cause the body to make unnatural movements.Restricted movements – some movements can prove difficult or painful for some people.Body fatigue – Designs should ensure that all movements and operations can be carried out in comfort without causing excessive muscle strain. E.g. a car seat.

Movement

Balance – the body must remain balanced when moving to avoid falling over. E.g. a windsurf boardSpace – must be adequate in order for the body to function normally and to avoid discomfort.

Senses

Involves the senses, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.Surface finishes should avoid sharp edges, dangerous corners, and rough edges.Heat and cold – insulate against heat or cold for protection and comfort. E.g. a frying panVisual elements – pleasing to the eyeWeight – lifting and carrying require designs that consider minimum weight and ease of use.

Evolution of the Design Process and Technologies

The earliest recorded references to design comes from Egypt.The earliest designers were architects from about 3000 BC.They were designers, not builders, and they mediated between patrons and builders.One of the oldest pieces of architecture in Europe was The Stonehenge