Information and communication technology (ICT)

ICT can help with designing resistant materials products in many ways:

• Drawings, graphics and diagrams can be produced and edited using graphics or design software.
• Written information about designs can be recorded and edited using word processing software.
• Writing and drawings can be combined using desk-top publishing (DTP) software.
• Pictures of existing products can be scanned and used in graphics, photo-editing or DTP software.
• Database packages can be used to record and analyse survey data.
• Spreadsheet software can be used to make Gantt or other planning charts, to produce graphs and charts, and to help with costing D&T projects.

ICT can help with the making of products in the following ways:

• Shapes printed onto card can be used for templates.
• Text printed out can be glued onto sheet material and cut out.
• Machines for cutting card and self-adhesive vinyl sheet can be used to cut letters or shapes. Complicated shapes can be cut more easily by machine than by hand.
• Computer-controlled lathes can make a number of identical turned parts.
• Computer-controlled milling machines can cut out shapes more easily than by hand, especially recesses in materials. Complicated shapes can be cut more easily than by hand.
• Parts which have fine detail, or need to have accurately fitting parts, can be made more accurately than by hand or manual machine methods.

Now try a Test Bite