Touch Sensor Light

Introduce the Design Cycle:

• Discuss the steps in the Design Cycle and its importance in solving problems.

Explain the Design Problem:

• Present the design challenge and highlight key aspects to consider.

Analyse the Design Problem:

• Guide students on identifying key information and translating it into a Design Brief.

Student Activity:

• Students practice analysing a problem and drafting a basic Design Brief.

Discuss Electronics:

• Whole-group discussion to define “electronics” and its real-world applications.

Explore Circuit Elements:

• Explain the parts of a circuit (e.g., power source, path, load, and control).

Introduce Electronic Components:

• Show common components like capacitors, resistors, diodes, and integrated circuits, and discuss their roles.

Student Activity:

• Students identify capacitors, diodes, resistors, and ICs from their kits.

Recap Electronics:

• Review the concept of electronics and the roles of different components.

Explore New Components:

• Introduce trim pots, transistors, LEDs, and PCBs. Discuss their functions and how they integrate into circuits.

Student Activity:

• Students locate and identify these components in their kits.

Recap Component Roles:

• Revisit the function of various components in a circuit.

Discuss Devices:

• Explain input, process, and output devices in electronic and mechanical systems.

Categorise Components:

• As a class, sort components into input, process, and output categories.

Student Activity:

• Students complete a hands-on exercise categorising their kit components into the three categories.

Demonstrate Soldering Setup:

• Show students how to set up a soldering station, including proper safety measures.

Student Pair Activity:

• In pairs, students set up their soldering stations under supervision.

Discuss Solder and Safety:

• Explain solder materials, the process, and key safety precautions.

Demonstrate Technique:

• Provide a clear demonstration of basic soldering techniques.

Student Activity:

• Students practice soldering under guidance and complete a related activity.

Idea Generation Discussion:

• Discuss techniques for generating creative ideas for individual designs.
• Encourage brainstorming and exploring unique approaches.

Thumbnail Images Explanation:

• Define thumbnail images and their purpose as quick, rough sketches.
• Clarify what thumbnail images should and should not include.

Student Activity:

• Students create a series of thumbnail sketches for their design ideas.

Purpose of Product Analysis:

• Discuss why product analysis is important in understanding design functionality and aesthetics.

Criteria Questions:

• Explain how to develop criteria questions to evaluate products effectively.

Student Activity:

• Students carry out a product analysis using predefined criteria.

Importance of Drawing:

• Discuss the role of drawing in the design process, including communication and precision.

Student Activity:

• Students create orthographic drawings of their designs.

Material Characteristics Discussion:

• Compare hardwoods and softwoods, highlighting their properties and uses.

Demonstrate Measuring and Marking:

• Show accurate measuring and marking techniques for the frame using hand tools.

Mitre Box and Saw Demonstration:

• Demonstrate how to set up and safely use a mitre box and saw.

Student Activity:

• Students measure, mark, and cut their frame pieces.

Orthographic Drawing Rules:

• Reinforce orthographic drawing principles in the context of their frame design.

Capabilities and Limitations:

• Explore the potential and constraints of the CNC laser in design and manufacturing.

Role in Prototyping:

• Discuss how CNC lasers contribute to prototyping and high-speed manufacturing.

Homework Activity:

• Students select an image and prepare it using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for CNC laser etching.

Features and Safety of Soldering:

• Explain soldering features and highlight safety measures.

Soldering Demonstration:

• Demonstrate setting up a soldering station and soldering techniques.

Student Activity:

• Students map out their circuit components and begin soldering.

Introduction to 3D Design Software:

• Introduce software – Tinkercad
• Guide students through basic tools for creating 3D models.

Designing the Casing:

• Demonstrate how to create a 3D model for the casing, including slots for components and space for wires.
• Discuss design considerations like ventilation, fit, and ease of assembly.

Student Activity:

• Students design their casing using the software and submit it for 3D printing.

Printing the Casing:

• Print the students’ designs using a 3D printer, and discuss the capabilities and limitations of 3D printing technology.

Gluing and Clamping Demonstration:

• Show proper techniques for gluing and clamping the timber frame.

Discuss Finishing Techniques:

• Explain the process of preparing a frame for a finish, including sanding and cleaning.

Student Activity:

• Students glue, clamp, and apply a finish to their frame.

Recap the Design Cycle:

• Review the steps of the Design Cycle and how they applied it to their project.

Knowledge & Understanding, Process & Production:

• Discuss how these elements were addressed throughout the unit.

Student Activity:

• Students conduct a product analysis on their completed project, evaluating their design, casing, and overall assembly against the criteria.