Eduqas GCSE Design and Technology key terms

The ability to withstand use and wear over time.

An aluminium-based alloy containing copper and magnesium that can be strengthened by age hardening.

A period during a cam’s rotation when its follower remains stationary.

Changing the colour of textile fibres, yarn or fabric using a suitable dye.

The effects of producing, using and disposing of a material or product on the environment, including resource use, pollution, emissions and waste.

The ability of a product to be made and sold at a cost and price that make it financially workable.

A reduction in average production cost per item as output increases, for example because set-up costs are spread over more items.

The input force applied to a mechanism.

The ability of a material to recover its original length or shape after being stretched or deformed.

The ability of a material to allow electric current to pass through it.

Resistance to the passage of electric current.

The production of light by a material in response to electrical stimulation.

An arrangement of connected electronic components that receives inputs, processes signals and produces outputs to perform a function.

An electronic controller built into a product to carry out particular functions.

A finishing process using patterned rollers to impress a design onto fabric.

Decoration made by stitching thread onto fabric to form a pattern or image.

Taking unfair advantage of workers, for example through inadequate pay, unsafe conditions or unreasonable demands.

The application of powdered glass to metal, followed by heating so that the glass fuses into a continuous surface layer.

The casing that surrounds electronic components, protecting them from their surroundings and helping prevent accidental contact.

The person who will actually use a product.

The effects a product has on the natural world through obtaining materials, manufacture, transport, use and disposal.

An exclusive OR gate, also called XOR. With two inputs, its output is HIGH only when the inputs are different.

A two-part adhesive whose resin and hardener react to form a strong bond.

Designing products to be comfortable, safe and efficient for people to use.

A textile with electronic components or circuits integrated into it.

Taking responsibility for the effects of design and manufacturing decisions on people and the environment.

Selecting materials and components with attention to their origins and the treatment of workers and communities involved in their supply.