Disabled

Section A: Design Questions

Total marks: 26

Theme: Designing for Individuals with Disabilities

You have been tasked to design a product that addresses a challenge faced by individuals with physical disabilities, focusing on improving their daily life, independence, or accessibility.

Question 1 (a) Identify a specific problem faced by an individual with a physical disability at home or in a public space that you intend to solve with your design. [2]

(b) Propose two different research methods you would use to gather information about this problem. [2]

(c) Justify why one of your chosen research methods is suitable for this design project. [1]

Question 2 (a) Based on your identified problem, create a pictorial sketch of two different design concepts to solve it. Ensure your sketches are clear and well-proportioned. [4]

(b) For each of your two concepts in (a), explain how it addresses the user's needs and the identified problem. [4]

Question 3 (a) Choose one of your concepts from Question 2 and describe a key functional feature that makes it suitable for an individual with a physical disability. [2]

(b) Identify two different materials you would use for the key parts of your refined design. [2]

(c) Justify your choice of these two materials based on their properties and suitability for the intended purpose and user group. [4]

Question 4 (a) Create a detailed orthographic projection of your refined design. You must include a front view, a side view, and a plan view. [2]

(b) Add at least two key dimensions to your drawing in 4(a). [2]

(c) Explain how the overall aesthetics and ergonomics of your final design would appeal to and be suitable for an individual with a physical disability. [3]

--- End of Section A ---

ANSWER KEY

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY PAPER 2 Secondary 4 Express

Section A: Design Questions

Total marks: 26

Theme: Designing for Individuals with Disabilities

Question 1 (a) Identify a specific problem faced by an individual with a physical disability at home or in a public space that you intend to solve with your design. [2]

• Possible Answer: A specific problem is the difficulty individuals with limited hand dexterity, such as those with arthritis or cerebral palsy, face when opening and closing doors with a standard round doorknob.

(b) Propose two different research methods you would use to gather information about this problem. [2]

• Possible Answer:

  • Direct Observation: Observe individuals with limited hand dexterity interacting with different types of doors and doorknobs in various settings to identify specific pain points and challenges.

  • Interviews with Occupational Therapists: Conduct interviews with occupational therapists to gain professional insights into the specific needs and limitations of their patients, and to learn about existing assistive devices and their shortcomings.

(c) Justify why one of your chosen research methods is suitable for this design project. [1]

• Possible Answer: Interviewing occupational therapists is suitable because they have expert knowledge and experience working with the target user group. Their input can provide a comprehensive understanding of the problem and the functional requirements of an effective solution.

Question 2 (a) Based on your identified problem, create a pictorial sketch of two different design concepts to solve it. Ensure your sketches are clear and well-proportioned. [4]

• (Note: Students are expected to provide sketches here. The description below outlines the expected content of the sketches.)

  • Concept 1: The Lever-Handle Adapter: A clip-on device that attaches to a standard round doorknob, converting it into a lever-style handle. The device would be ergonomically shaped to be operated with an open palm or elbow, reducing the need for a tight grip.

  • Concept 2: The Push-Button Door Opener: An electronic device that retrofits onto a door. It features a large, easy-to-press button that activates a simple servo motor to turn the doorknob and unlatch the door. It could be powered by a rechargeable battery.

(b) For each of your two concepts in (a), explain how it addresses the user's needs and the identified problem. [4]

• Possible Answer:

  • Concept 1: The lever-handle adapter addresses the problem of limited hand dexterity by removing the need for a gripping motion. The user can simply apply pressure with their hand or arm to open the door, making it accessible to a wider range of users.

  • Concept 2: The push-button opener completely automates the action of turning the doorknob. This is particularly effective for users with severe dexterity issues or who may not be able to apply any force, providing a completely hands-free solution.

Question 3 (a) Choose one of your concepts from Question 2 and describe a key functional feature that makes it suitable for an individual with a physical disability. [2]

• Possible Answer (based on Concept 1): A key functional feature is the non-slip, textured surface on the lever adapter. This provides a better grip and prevents the user's hand or arm from slipping, increasing safety and confidence in its use.

(b) Identify two different materials you would use for the key parts of your refined design. [2]

• Possible Answer:

  • Main body/adapter: ABS plastic.

  • Grip surface: Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE).

(c) Justify your choice of these two materials based on their properties and suitability for the intended purpose and user group. [4]

• Possible Answer:

  • ABS plastic is an excellent choice for the main body because it is lightweight, durable, and easily molded into complex shapes. Its high impact resistance ensures the product can withstand daily use without breaking.

  • Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) is suitable for the grip surface because it is a soft, non-slip material that provides comfort and a secure grip. It is also easy to clean and is hypoallergenic, which is important for a product that comes into frequent contact with skin.

Question 4 (a) Create a detailed orthographic projection of your refined design. You must include a front view, a side view, and a plan view. [2]

• (Note: Students are expected to provide an orthographic drawing. The answer should be a well-drawn technical drawing with clear projection lines.)

(b) Add at least two key dimensions to your drawing in 4(a). [2]

• (Note: Students are expected to add dimensions to their drawing.)

• Possible Answer: Dimensions should include the overall length of the lever adapter and its height.

(c) Explain how the overall aesthetics and ergonomics of your final design would appeal to and be suitable for an individual with a physical disability. [3]

• Possible Answer:

  • Aesthetics: The design has a simple, modern aesthetic that looks like a natural part of the door, rather than a bulky medical device. This helps to reduce any potential stigma associated with using an assistive product.

  • Ergonomics: The product's shape and form are designed specifically for ease of use. The lever action requires minimal force and is adaptable to various methods of operation (hand, elbow), making it highly suitable for users with a range of physical abilities.