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Design & Technology – Product Design A Level

someone hand drawing a design
Getting Ahead

Design & Technology - Product Design A Level at Alton Campus

This work will help you get to grips with the software used on this course. In completing the below tasks you’ll find you’re one step ahead when it comes to starting your coursework in September.

handmade necklace resting on concrete

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

Resources

Meet your Teachers

  • Graham Knight

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Your Learning Space

*This is a representation of your learning space and may not be the exact room you will be using

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My time at the college was definitely life changing, I have learnt a lot of new skills, and obviously it’s a completely new experience. The support was great, there was always people there to help and try make it as easy as they can for you. The college is really fantastic, it has helped me on the way to get to what I want to achieve within my career goals.

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