Needs Identification:

• Accessibility: Many older people have mobility issues, requiring easy access to all areas of the centre. This could be addressed by incorporating ramps, level access, wider doorways, and accessible toilets. Challenge: Ensuring compliance with building regulations and potential cost implications.
• Social Interaction: Older people often value social interaction and combating loneliness. Design could include comfortable seating areas, a communal kitchen, and spaces for activities like games or craft groups. Challenge: Creating spaces that are welcoming and inclusive for people with varying levels of social engagement.
• Safety and Security: Older people may be more vulnerable to falls or feeling unsafe. Design considerations could include good lighting, non-slip flooring, emergency call systems, and secure access points. Challenge: Balancing safety measures with creating a comfortable and inviting environment.

Addressing these needs requires careful consideration of the target user's physical and emotional well-being. Design solutions should be user-centred and take into account potential limitations.

To generate and develop ideas for the charity's storage solution, I would follow a structured design process. This would involve several stages:

• Brief Analysis: I would begin by thoroughly analyzing the charity's needs. This includes understanding the types of goods they receive (clothing, books, household items), the volume of donations, and the space constraints of their current storage area. I would ask clarifying questions to fully understand their requirements.
• Idea Generation: I would employ various brainstorming techniques to generate a range of potential solutions. These could include:
  • Sketching multiple concepts – different shapes, sizes, and configurations.
  • Mind mapping – exploring related ideas and features.
  • Using a 'forces' analysis to consider structural requirements.
  • Looking at existing storage solutions for inspiration (e.g., shelving units, lockers, modular systems).
• Concept Development: I would then select the most promising ideas and develop them further. This would involve creating more detailed sketches, including dimensions and potential materials. I would consider the ease of assembly, durability, and cost-effectiveness of each concept.
• CAD Modelling: I would use CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Fusion 360) to create 3D models of the selected concepts. This allows for a more accurate visualization of the design and facilitates detailed analysis. I would experiment with different material thicknesses and joinery methods within the CAD environment.
• Evaluation: I would evaluate the developed concepts based on criteria such as:
  • Functionality: Does the design effectively store the required goods?
  • Durability: Can the design withstand regular use and the weight of the stored items?
  • Cost: Is the design within the charity's budget?
  • Ease of Assembly: Can the design be easily assembled by volunteers with limited technical skills?
  • Aesthetics: Is the design visually appealing?
  I would use a decision matrix to weight these criteria and select the best option. I would also consider prototyping a small-scale model to test the feasibility of the design.

Drawings would be used throughout the process, starting with quick sketches and progressing to more detailed technical drawings with dimensions, material specifications, and assembly instructions. CAD would be essential for creating accurate 3D models and generating detailed drawings for manufacturing.

To effectively communicate the self-watering planter design, a phased approach using sketches, formal drawings, and a digital presentation is necessary. Each stage builds upon the previous one, ensuring clarity and understanding for both the principal and gardening club members.

Phase 1: Sketches (Initial Concept & Functionality): The initial sketches would focus on exploring different planter forms and self-watering mechanisms.

• Example: Sketches showing various planter shapes (e.g., cylindrical, rectangular, tiered) and different wicking systems (e.g., capillary action, reservoir).
• Information Conveyed: Initial ideas for the planter's appearance, potential placement in the garden, and the basic principle of self-watering.
• Purpose: To quickly explore different concepts and get initial feedback on feasibility and aesthetics.

Phase 2: Formal Drawings (Detailed Design & Dimensions): Based on the feedback from the sketches, formal drawings would be created to define the planter's dimensions, materials, and construction.

• Example: Orthographic projections (front, side, top views) showing the planter's dimensions, a section view illustrating the internal components (reservoir, wicking system), and detail drawings of the construction joints.
• Information Conveyed: Precise measurements, material specifications (e.g., type of plastic, dimensions of components), and instructions for assembly.
• Purpose: To provide a detailed blueprint for manufacturing and construction, ensuring the planter is functional and durable.

Phase 3: Digital Presentation (Visualisation & Demonstration): A 3D CAD model would be created to visually demonstrate the planter's appearance and functionality.

• Example: A rotating 3D model of the planter, allowing the principal and gardening club members to view it from all angles. Animations showing the water flow through the wicking system.
• Information Conveyed: Realistic representation of the planter's aesthetics, ease of use, and self-watering mechanism. Potential for showing different colour options or finishes.
• Purpose: To provide a clear and engaging visual representation of the final product, facilitating understanding and gaining approval. The digital model can also be used to demonstrate the planter's capacity and how it would fit into the garden.

By using this combination of methods, the design can be effectively communicated to all stakeholders, ensuring everyone understands the design's functionality, aesthetics, and technical specifications.