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PAT Theme: Garden Tool Storage Shed You are tasked with designing: 1. A Garden Tool Storage Shed for a residential home (Civil Design Component) CIVIL DESIGN – Tool Shed Plan (50 Marks) Scenario: A homeowner wants a 1.8 m x 2.4 m wooden storage shed to be constructed in their backyard. The shed must include a sloped roof, a single door, and one window for ventilation. The shed must be able to withstand weather conditions, such as wind and rain and severe sunlight. PART A: 1. Understand Your PAT Topic Before you start, read through the PAT brief carefully. Identify the theme (e.g., architecture, product design, engineering solution). Understand the client requirements (what is being asked of you). Clarify the problem statement in your own words. 2. Define Your Research Goals Ask yourself: What information do I need to complete the design? Who is my target user/client? What materials, dimensions, and technical details must I know? 3. Types of Research to Include Your research must have both visual and written components. Include: a) Contextual Research Background information about the topic (history, purpose, trends). Examples of similar designs or existing solutions. Advantages and disadvantages of these examples. b) Design Inspiration Pictures, sketches, and photographs of similar products or structures. Notes explaining why you find them useful or appealing. c) Technical & Material Research Suitable materials (strength, durability, cost, availability). Possible construction/manufacturing methods. Relevant technical standards (SANS, ISO, or local building regulations). d) Target Market Research Who will use the product/design? What are their needs, preferences, and limitations? 4. How to Gather Information Use a variety of sources: Books and magazines related to design, architecture, or engineering. Internet (only reliable websites). Interviews with experts. Own photos from site visits. 5. Presenting Your Research Use headings and subheadings to organise your work. Include labels and captions for images. Keep notes short and to the point (bullet points are fine). Show evidence of analysis — don’t just copy information, explain how it will help your design. 6. Plagiarism Warning Do not copy text directly from the internet without quoting the source. Write in your own words and reference all materials. 7. Expected Output Your research section should include: At least 4–6 pages of written and visual research. Minimum 10 labelled images of relevant inspiration or examples. Bibliography listing all sources. The PAT must consist of: Part A – Phase 1 • Cover page • A full contents page with page numbers. • Design brief. • Research relevant to the design. • Complete bibliography. • Three freehand drawings. • Select the best solution with reasons, also a material schedule with reasons.
