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Vocabulary

STEM Vocabulary

2D Sketch – A sketch that is made on a flat piece of paper.

3D Object – A three dimensional object is created by specific software, where the object resides on a three dimensional surface that incorporates space.

Automation – The use of computers or machines to control machine operations and make a product.

Brainstorming – A group or individual activity where you try to find the answer for a specific problem by gathering a list of ideas spontaneously.

Computer Aided Design – The use of computer systems to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design.

Constraints – Limits on a product’s design.

Dimensions – A measurement of the size of something in a particular direction, such as the length, width, height, or diameter.

Engineer – Someone who applies scientific and design principles to create practical solutions for problems.

Engineering Design Process – The engineering design process is a series of steps that engineers and designers use to guide them as they solve problems. This process is often repeated as many times as needed, making improvements along the way.

Innovation – The process of improving a design.

Interface – A point where two systems meet and interact.

Isometric Drawing – A drawing where three sides of the object are shown in a single view.

Orthographic Projection – A kind of drawing that shows each surface of the object separately, as if you were looking straight at it.

Metric System – The international system of unit measurement.

Programming – The act or process of sending an organized list of instructions that when executed causes the computer to behave in a predetermined manner.

Prototype – Is the first working version of the designer’s solution.

Specifications – Criteria for a product to be successful (useful, practical, cost effective, performance, details, etc.).

Technology – The knowledge and process of using the laws of nature to solve problems by designing and making products or structures to satisfy human needs and wants.

Trade-Off – The giving up one thing for another.

Universal Systems Model – A framework used to simplify and depict complex systems. The four parts of the Universal Systems Model include: 1. Input 2. Process 3. Output 4. Feedback