Design & Technology – Product Design A Level

Designers make extensive use of 3D CAD software to develop and communicate their ideas. One such piece of software is ‘Sketchup’. This is a free web-based application: Sketchup. It is relatively easy to use but you may wish to view some online tutorials using the following link: SketchUp.

Your task over the summer will be to choose a household object (or alternatively design one) that is based on simple geometric forms and then accurately model it full size using Sketchup. The product could be a desktop PC, table lamp, candle holder or candelabra, etc.

• Ensure a ‘millimetres’ template has been defined (see ‘!’ Model info, in the right-hand toolbar)
• To ‘sketch’ accurate lines and shapes you need to click, drag and then enter measurements in the bottom hand right corner of the screen. For example, for a square, select the Rectangle tool then click, drag and type ‘100,100’ and press Enter
• To convert outlines into 3D forms you need to use the Push/Pull modelling tool or the Follow Me modelling tool (which is available by clicking the ‘…’ icon at the bottom of the left hand tool bar).
• Draw each part of the object separately, e.g. buttons, screens, etc., and then group the lines (select lines and then right click ‘Make Group’). This will enable you to edit and move the parts when assembling
• Complete objects using Materials, Styles, Scenes and Display settings (right-hand toolbar)
• Seek help or ideas and share with graham.knight@alton.hsdc.ac.uk