2.3. Technology http://www.ck12.org
Technological Design
The development of new technology is calledtechnological design. It is similar to scientific investigation. Both
processes use evidence and logic to solve problems.
Technological Design Process
Figure2.13 shows the steps of the technological design process. Consider the problem of developing a solar-
powered car. Many questions would have to be researched in the design process. For example, what is the best shape
for gathering the sun’s rays? How will the energy from the sun be stored? Will a back-up energy source be needed?
After researching the answers, possible designs are developed. This takes imagination as well as reason. Then a
model is made of the best design, and the model is tested. This allows any problems with the design to be worked
out before a final design is selected.
FIGURE 2.13
This flowchart represents the process of
technological design. How does the tech-
nological design process resemble a sci-
entific investigation?Constraints on Technological Design
Technological design always has constraints. Constraints are limits on the design. Common constraints include:
- laws of nature, such as the law of gravity.
- properties of the materials used.
- cost of producing a technology.
Ethical concerns are also constraints on many technological designs. Like scientists, engineers must follow ethical
rules. For example, the technologies they design must be as safe as possible for people and the environment.