AQA A-level Design & Technology / Product Design⌕ Search notes
AQA 7552   /   3.2.7

How testing can eliminate errors.

Accuracy in design and manufacture · Designing and making principles

Revision notes

How testing can eliminate errors

Testing allows errors to be identified before they are repeated throughout manufacture. Measurements and checks can be made against the required dimensions, tolerances, specification or performance criteria.

During development

Testing prototypes can reveal dimensional, functional or ergonomic problems. The design can then be modified and tested again before production begins.

During manufacture

Manufacturers can check materials, components and finished products at planned stages. If measurements begin to move outside the permitted tolerance, the process can be corrected before a large number of faulty products are produced.

A go/no-go gauge provides a rapid pass/fail check of whether a component lies within dimensional limits. Vernier calipers and micrometers provide precise measurements, while scanning or probe-based equipment can compare manufactured geometry with required dimensions.

Testing therefore provides evidence for correction and refinement, helping reduce human error, waste, rework and inconsistent products.

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