Product Design - Course Outline

Level 1

• develop visual expression skills
• 2-D & 3D techniques
• engineering fundamentals

This level introduces you to some of the key skills a designer requires to develop successful products. You will work on both short and long projects as individuals and in teams. You will explore a range of 2-D and 3-D visualisation techniques in Design Studies. Technology modules will introduce you to the fundamental principles of engineering as well as the materials that are available to you as a designer.

Level 2

• design detail
• introduction to design issues such as safety, comfort, ease of use, performance and aesthetics
• interaction design
• personal design process
• computer aided design

Level 2 encourages you to build on your understanding of the design skills gained in Level 1. You will learn how to develop products to a greater level of detail and will begin to consider how issues such as ergonomics can influence design. We will also introduce you to the world of interaction design and you will develop your own personal design process. Our technology courses will introduce you to electronics, 2-D and 3-D computer aided design and structural analysis.

Level 3

• research techniques for engaging with people
• introduction to new technology
• commercial issues
• create model with working technology
• engineering design

Level 3 deepens your understanding of designing products through investigating the needs of people. You will be introduced to a number of research techniques that will allow you to engage with people. We will encourage you to use this new knowledge in your products. You will also explore some of the commercial issues that affect the development of products and will be encouraged to contextualise the development of your work in terms of current social issues. In preparation for your final year, we will place emphasis on developing highly polished models with working technology. Technology modules will develop your understanding and use of the principles behind engineering design.

Level 4

• studio time
• major personal project

You will spend the majority of your time in the studio where you will be working on a major personal project. By this stage you will have enough knowledge of product design to define your own brief. At the end of the year you will exhibit your work in the Duncan of Jordanstone Degree Show. Previous major projects have explored interactive furniture, services and products that promote sustainable living, inclusive design solutions for the visually impaired and digital products for the home. You can also choose from a range of optional modules including a dissertation, business and advanced computer aided design module.