GCSE Design and Technology AQA

This subject is broken down into 74 topics in 9 modules:

  1. Design and Technology AQA 22 topics
  2. Key Ideas in Design and Technology 5 topics
  3. Materials and Systems - Introduction 8 topics
  4. Materials 6 topics
  5. Paper and Board 5 topics
  6. Wood, Metals and Polymers 7 topics
  7. Textiles 5 topics
  8. Electronic and Mechanical Systems 4 topics
  9. Designing and Making 12 topics
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  • 9
    modules
  • 74
    topics
  • 21,694
    words of revision content
  • 2+
    hours of audio lessons

This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Design and Technology

Design and Technology AQA

Cutting, Abrasion and Addition

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Cutting, Abrasion and Addition

Cutting Techniques

  • Shearing: Applying a high-pressure tool on the material to break it apart.
  • Sawing: Used frequently in woodworking and metalworking with different types of saws.
  • Laser cutting: A non-contact process which utilises a laser to cut materials, resulting in high-quality, dimensionally accurate cuts.

Abrasion Techniques

  • Sanding: The process of smoothing an object by rubbing it with an abrasive (sandpaper), a technique commonly used in woodworking.
  • Grinding: A type of abrasive cutting using grinding wheels to cut heavy materials.
  • Blasting: A powerful, high-speed method of cleaning or etching surfaces using sand or other particulate matter.

Addition Techniques

  • Welding: A fabrication process that joins materials, typically metals or thermoplastics, by using high heat to melt the parts together and allowing them to cool, causing fusion.
  • Soldering: A process that joins two pieces of metal by melting and putting a filler metal into the joint.
  • Adhesive bonding: The technique of joining materials, sometimes of different types, using a glue or adhesive substance.
  • Fastening: Using devices such as screws, nails, or bolts to join materials together.

Remember that the choice of technique often depends on the material being worked on and the desired end product. Always consider the strengths, weaknesses, and safety implications of the chosen technique.

Course material for Design and Technology, module Design and Technology AQA, topic Cutting, Abrasion and Addition

Design and Technology

Materials

Scales of Production

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Scales of Production

Scales of Production

One-off Production

  • This involves producing a single, unique product.

  • One-off production is often used for bespoke items, like tailored clothing or custom furniture; each product is designed and made to a specific brief.

Batch Production

  • Batch production is when a set number of identical products are made.

  • It allows for economies of scale, as resources can be dedicated to producing a large number of items at once.

Mass Production

  • Mass production involves making thousands, or even millions, of identical products.

  • Highly automated, continuous production lines are often used, making this a cost-effective method for high volumes.

Continuous Production

  • Continuous production systems work 24/7, producing vast quantities of the same product, like oil refining, electricity generation, or making chemicals.

  • These systems are automated and require minimal human involvement.

Just in Time

  • Just in Time (JIT) manufacturing involves making products just as they are ordered, rather than holding stocks of completed goods.

  • This can help with cash flow and reduces storage costs, but requires a reliable and quick production and delivery process.

Course material for Design and Technology, module Materials, topic Scales of Production

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