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      Quality control: papers and boards

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use quality control check to ensure the manufacture of my design is successful.

      Key learning points

      1. Accuracy when manufacturing ensures quality.
      2. Quality checks can be made using visual inspection.
      3. Quality control checks can be made using measurements which can be automated or manual.
      4. Quality control is planned in advance of manufacture.

      Keywords

      • Quality control - checks made on a product before, during and after its manufacture so it meets quality and safety standards

      • Accuracy - being correct and precise

      • Tolerance - the acceptable range of variation in a product's dimensions

      Common misconception

      Quality control are checks that are done on products once made to ensure they are a high enough quality to be sold or used.

      Quality control checks are done throughout the process to ensure quality is a constant.

      Teacher tip

      Highlight to students the mantra "Measure twice, cut once." to encourage this practice.

      Equipment

      A range of jigs and measuring implements are recommended. Laser cutter, use of computers, CAD software and material for the manufacturing of the students prototypes.

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - equipment

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What does GSM measure?

      Correct answer: measures the weight or thickness of paper
      measures the level of precision in machine tooling
      measures the amount of energy consumed during production

      Q2.
      What method of fabrication is shown in this image?

      An image in a quiz
      net
      Correct answer: lamination
      die cutting

      Q3.
      What are the parts of a net called where glue is applied to stick together?

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: tabs, tab

      Q4.
      What focuses the light onto the material in a laser cutter?

      Correct answer: lens
      mirror
      prism

      Q5.
      What two settings need adjusting on a laser cutter depending on the material and material thickness?

      Correct answer: speed
      brightness
      temperature
      Correct answer: power
      pressure

      Q6.
      What can be used to hold card in place on the laser cutter when being cut?

      magnets
      clamps
      Correct answer: masking tape
      glue

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What do quality control checks help to ensure?

      correct design developments have been undertaken
      Correct answer: accuracy of manufacture
      the prototype meets the clients needs

      Q2.
      What word means a range of acceptable measurements?

      Correct answer: tolerance
      calibration
      precision

      Q3.
      What is this piece of measuring equipment called?

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: Vernier digital caliper, digital caliper, caliper

      Q4.
      What can be used in manufacturing to hold and guide a piece of material or part in place whilst working?

      Correct Answer: jig

      To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Quality control: papers and boards, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...