A model is a mock-up (usually on a smaller scale) of a product or a structure. We create this to present the idea or  structure and examine the mechanical or electronic systems. A model is usually built using soft materials.

There are two reasons to building a model:  

1. Demonstrating an idea;

2. Carrying out a feasibility study for our idea

If we wish to demonstrate an idea (shape, structure, colour etc.) using the model (for example, showing the structure of a hair dryer) than there is no need to use real material but rather materials that are simple to work with and to present. On the other hand, if we wish to examine our product we need to use materials that will be appropriate for a feasibility test.

 

We make a small scale sketch of our idea in order to present it and show the relation between the different parts of the product and its surrounding.

A technological problem is a question that, once answered, will end a problematic or an undesirable situation. We should define the technological problem as a question beginning with ‘How….?’ or, ‘In what way…?’

For example: “How would I design and build a bicycle seat?”

We asses our model according to the listed requirements and suggest ways of improving the solution.

When we develop and plan our ideas we take the following steps:

1. Make  a sketch drawn to scale;
2. Choose the materials for the model;

Choose the tools and equipment we need for building our model.

When approaching a problem, we gather information on similar existing products, relevant scientific laws, materials and so on. We also research the different social, environmental and technological aspects of the problem.

We should generate as many ideas for a solution as possible because:

1. the more ideas we generate, the more options we have to choose from;
2. the more ideas we generate, the more creative we become;

The more ideas we generate, the more requirements we are likely to meet.

Necessary requirements are the ones that the solution must meet. Optional requirements, on the other hand, are the ones we can eventually waive or compromise. Optional requirements are prioritized according to their level of importance. The designer is the one to decide the importance level of each optional requirement.

 

For example: the required size of a chair is necessary, while its required colour is optional.

A need is something that we must have. There are basic needs such as food, water and shelter as well as needs that are not so basic like status, comfort and so on.

A need is something we must have, while the requirement details the needs. If we design a bicycle seat, it must answer the need for comfort and therefore meet the required size and colour.

It is possible to organize data according to various criteria: requirements, aspects (scientific, technological, social etc.), target audience and so on.

A prototype is a model which looks and functions exactly like the finished product. It is usually produced with the same materials we expect to use during the mass production stage. A prototype is sometimes developed in order to prove a theory or an idea.

When selecting the most appropriate solution to the problem;

1. We examine each one of the ideas in relation to the previously defined requirements (meets the requirements/ meets the requirements but only partially/does not meet the requirements).
2. We examine each of the suggested solutions in relation to the requirement’s level of importance (is it a necessary or an optional requirement?)
3. We examine each of the solutions in relation to other criteria, such as  available resources and the skills required to implement our solution.

The solution requirements mean everything we want our product to be.

For example: we require a bicycle seat to suit the size of the cyclist and be of light colour so that it does not absorb heat.

We gather our information from various sources: books, encyclopedias, published surveys, interviews with specialists and experts, stores, films, newspapers and magazines, data bases and the Internet are only some of the resources available

Teamwork is better than working on your own because –

 

1. Together we can generate more ideas;
2. When we discuss our ideas, more ideas are bound to come up;
3.  It is nicer to work together  - we share ideas as well as give and receive encouragement and constructive criticism.

 

In order to select the most appropriate solution, we use a score method. Each suggestion receives points according to how well it meets requirements. The most appropriate solution is the one with the highest score, providing that it meets all the necessary requirements.

Sometimes the solution that scores the highest does not meet one or more necessary requirements. We do not select it. When different ideas meet different requirement, we try to combine them and meet as many requirements and so arrive at the most appropriate solution.