PLTW - Design and Modeling

PLTW Course Description:

Design and Modeling (DM) provides students opportunities to apply the design process to creatively solve problems. DM is focused on the design process which is the foundation of all engineering tasks. Students learn and utilize methods for communicating design ideas through sketches, solid models, and mathematical models. Students will understand how models can be simulated to represent an authentic situation and generate data for further analysis and observations. Students work in teams to identify design requirements, research the topic, and engage stakeholders. Instruction and learning activities are provided in a laboratory setting using hands-on experiences with the equipment, materials and technology appropriate to the course content and in accordance with current practices.

Unit 1: Introduction to Design Students discover the design process as they complete an instant design challenge to create an ankle foot orthosis. They learn thumbnail, orthographic, isometric, and perspective sketching as methods for communicating design ideas effectively without the use of technology. The use of a common measurement system is essential for communicating and fabricating designs. Students learn conversions between two measurement systems and apply measurement skills while dimensioning sketches.

1.1A Foot Orthosis Instant Design Challenge

1.1 Design Process Reflection Table

1.2 Sketching Reference

1.2A A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words

1.3A How Big Was That Fish

1.4P Investigate the Inside

1.4 Rubric

Unit 2: Modeling and Statistical Analysis In this lesson, students transfer a two-dimensional representation to a three-dimensional solid model with technology. Students study basic geometric shapes within a mathematical model and use combinations of geometric primitives to form more complex shapes. During the design project, students work in teams and apply the design process to create a puzzle cube. Students create a solid model using a computer-aided design (CAD) application and fabricate their design solution for testing. Students use a dynamic mathematics program to complete statistical analysis from their testing results to determine if their design met the criteria and constraints.

2.1A Building Blocks

2.1 Puzzle Design Challenge Brief

2.2A Take Modeling to Another Dimension

2.3P Puzzle Cube Statistical Analysis

2.3 Puzzle Cube Data Sheet

Unit 3: Design Challenge Within teams, students brainstorm and select a design solution to the problem based on design requirements. They establish team norms, collaborate, and recognize that solving authentic problems involves interdisciplinary skills such as engineering, biomedical science, and computer science skills. Using the design process, students create a solid model of their design, build a prototype for design testing, and make necessary design modifications based on testing results.

3.1A Lets Simulate To Elucidate

3.2 Design Brief Template

3.2B Therapeutic Toy Design Challenge

3.2 Rubric

On the PLTW Videos page, there are videos to watch over the PLTW Design Process. You will need to reference these videos frequently to fully develop an understanding of the Design Process.

Team Norm Google Form

Vote for 2 norms that will be used on EVERY group activity.