http://www.ck12.org Chapter 1. Introduction to Physical Science
1.14 Technological Design Constraints
- Give examples of physical and social constraints on technological design.
- Explain why all technological designs have trade-offs.
Look at the colorful kites in this picture. Did you ever fly a kite? Do you think you could make one? What shape
would you make it? What materials would you use? How would you design it?
1.14 Technological Design Constraints
The development of new technology—whether it’s a simple kite or a complex machine—is called technological
design. The technological design process is a step-by-step approach to finding a solution to a problem. Often, the
main challenge in technological design is finding a solution that works within the constraints, or limits, on the design.
All technological designs have constraints.
Q:Assume you want to design a kite. What might be some constraints on your design?
A:Possible constraints might include the shape and size of the kite and the materials you use to make it.
Physical and Social Constraints
Technological design constraints may be physical or social.
- Physical design constraints include factors such as natural laws and properties of materials. A kite, for
example, will fly only if its shape allows air currents to lift it. Otherwise, gravity will keep it on the ground. - Social design constraints include factors such as ease of use, safety, attractiveness, and cost. For example, a
kite string should be easy to unwind as the wind carries the kite higher.