Modelling and Modifications

How many marks is this bit worth? 4
How many pages should it occupy? Maximum 3

Your ability to make simple models and use them to finalise details of your design will be marked at this stage. You should attempt to produce a scale model (half size, 1:5 etc) using simple materials such as paper, card or modelling foam. Use one of the digital cameras to take a photo of it, stick it in your design folder and make a note of any conclusions that you reach.

For example, you might have an idea in mind for the shape of a desk light. With the information that you have gained in the previous section about components, material sizes and construction methods you can now make a scale model of your design and use it to check the aesthetics.

You might have an idea for the shape and proportions for a storage unit. Making a model will help you to establish that the proportions look right (and so it meets aesthetic requirements in your specification) and that the design is stable.

As a starting point, I suggest that you decide upon the measurements of your final product. Do this by looking at the maximum/minimum size limits imposed by your specification. Check that you are not designing something using material which might not actually exist in those particular sizes; materials are usually only available in stock sizes eg 6mm MDF or 18mm x 44mm pine.

Pick a scale that will allow you to make a large enough model such as 1:2, 1:4, 1:5, 1:10 and then make your model.