Teaching article
An engineering sketch should communicate how the model works
Show the features needed to understand a proposed solution.
A clear join label can matter more than a beautifully shaded outline. Ask a partner to interpret materials, folds and dimensions from the sketch, then add the construction information the drawing did not convey.
Draw the main form. Label materials and joins. Add a dimension note.
Draw for the person who must understand it
Use a clear line or label for each important component. An engineering sketch should communicate construction information rather than imitate polished illustration.
'Fold here' communicates a construction step that a decorative arrow does not.
Symbols need meanings. Could a partner explain the design?
Annotate a provided outline.
Resources
- Paper Bridge Design Challenge — Apply a stated span and test method when comparing the paper prototypes.
Further reading
Read next
- Top and side views reveal different parts of the same model
- Design the model's pack-down as well as its construction
- Decoration can also have a function
Explore Design and paper engineering. Browse all teaching articles.