Section A · Core PrinciplesAQA 8552 · Written Paper
New & Emerging Technologies
Automation, Industry 4.0, crowdfunding, virtual marketing, planned obsolescence, fair trade. Extended questions demand evaluation.
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GCSE DT RevisionNew and Emerging Technologies in DT
Key facts
Industry 4.0 and digital manufacture
- Industry 4.0 — fourth industrial revolution: integration of digital tech, automation, AI, data in manufacturing.
- CAD/CAM — design digitally → manufacture automatically via CNC. No human transcription errors.
- 3D printing / additive manufacture — builds objects layer by layer. Rapid prototyping, bespoke parts, reduced waste (only uses material needed).
- Robotics and automation — programmable robots for welding, assembly, painting. Faster, more consistent, no fatigue.
- Impact on workers: repetitive roles reduced, but new roles in programming, maintenance and data analysis created.
Business and consumer technology
- Crowdfunding — raising small amounts from many investors online (Kickstarter). Tests market interest before manufacture.
- Virtual marketing — social media, influencers, targeted digital advertising. Cheaper and more targeted than traditional media.
- Planned obsolescence — designing products with a limited lifespan so consumers must replace them. Increases sales but generates waste.
- Fair trade — ensures producers in developing countries receive fair pay and work in safe conditions.
- Global markets — products designed, made and sold globally. Cost advantages but transport has environmental cost.
Exam questions — 4 questions · 10 marks · real AQA 8552 past papers
Extended questions included — read the hint. AI marks against the AQA 8552 mark scheme.
1 markCrowdfunding benefitAQA 8552 Nov 2021 style
What is the main advantage of crowdfunding for a small independent product designer?
A It guarantees the product will be manufactured by a large company
B It allows raising money from many small investors without traditional bank loans while simultaneously testing market demand
C The designer does not pay tax on crowdfunding income
D It gives the designer an automatic patent on their idea
1 markPlanned obsolescenceAQA 8552 style
What is planned obsolescence?
A Planning to manufacture products as sustainably as possible from the outset
B Designing products with a deliberately limited lifespan so consumers must replace them more frequently
C Planning for end-of-life recycling during the design stage
D Products becoming obsolete when technology advances beyond them
4 marksEvaluate automation in manufacturingAQA 8552 Nov 2020 Q18 style
Evaluate the impact of increased automation and robotics in manufacturing. Consider both manufacturers and workers. (4 marks)
Hint: At least TWO advantages AND TWO disadvantages. Cover both manufacturer perspective and worker perspective.
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