Teaching article
A fictional toy shelter needs a doorway the user can enter
Translate a fictional user's needs into testable model features.
Put the paper figure beside the sketch and check the relevant dimensions. A pleasing shape may still fail the brief if the model user cannot fit through the opening or use the interior.
Define the toy's needs. Sketch dimensions. Test fit and access.
A doorway that looks attractive may still be too narrow for the paper figure.
Fit is a testable requirement
Measure against the user model rather than drawing proportions by eye. The intended figure needs both room inside and a usable entrance.
Does the user fit? Use an outline template.
Do not imply real weather protection.
Resources
- Doughnut Shop Paper Stand STEM — Use the lightweight display-stand brief to test fit and stability.
Further reading
Read next
- Bridge comparisons need the span written into the record
- Two solutions should differ in how they work
- Choose success criteria another group could apply
Explore Design and paper engineering. Browse all teaching articles.