Institute of Technology Carlow Curriculum

Learners engage in a Product disassembly, testing and ACCESS FM which coincides with the studio design module. Through this process there will be a cataloging of components/parts. These will be categorised and grouped for assessment of manufacturing details and materials. Internal components will be recorded before disassembly and stored for reassembly in a prototype. Learners will learn how to record and compile a bill of materials including specification sheets. Based on the information learned through disassembly learners will be expected to generate iterations to explore form opportunities.

Learners through the workshop module will engage in rapid prototyping technologies to develop a single part mold from their original disassembled product. This single part mold will allow the learners to engage with technologies like fusion deposition 3D printing to create full size moldings and parts and give them the understanding, knowledge and experience to create these parts. Through lectures and practice-based learning they will be walked through the good practice, running and maintenance of the rapid prototyping technologies. Learners will be made aware of appropriate material use for the machine. Learners will engage in this practical applied project to allow them run through the process and deliver a model at the conclusion. Sign off on 3D printer control / use.

In unison with the industrial design module learners will engage in a workshop modelling exercise to create a fully working prototype product. Through a combination of traditional model making skills and rapid prototyping technologies the learner will develop a final representational model showing attention to detail, finish specification, working components and be completed to a professional level. Learner will engage with rapid prototyping technologies in alignment with the computer modelling module. Prototypes will be printed and used for the alignment of original product components. The assembly of this prototype will be assessed to identify potential clashes and rectify them

This is a dedicated space to allow learners to test, evaluate and represent the application of their research through 3D physical workshop made models. Resourcing of a workshop space include machinery, tools and materials. Materials such as modelling foam, MDF, Jelutong, Cardboard, foam board are all essential to investigate and develop a design solution.

A dedicated space designed to allow for studio-based learning. This space is specific to a particular learning group. While used to deliver studio-based education the space is available to accommodate learners outside scheduled/timetabled hours. It provides a safe learner- driven, peer-reviewed environment, supported on a one-to-one basis. The room must also be fitted with good quality projector, document visualisers and sound equipment for delivery of hybrid approaches. It supports the synthesis of parallel concurrent modular knowledge, skills and competency with prior learning & personal aesthetic judgement, to resolve specific design research question/s.

A dedicated design technician to support, demonstrate and maintain equipment while auditing and stocking of materials for the design workshop and studio practice

There are a number of prototyping machines used including a laser cutter for cutting acrylic, paper, card, wood & engraving of anodised alluminium. Fusion deposition 3D printer with associated materials.

Each learner requires access to studio computers with suitable software used on the Design program. There should be access to printing and plotting facilities in order to complete Design Projects