Question 1: Define a 'smart material' and explain how it differs from traditional materials.

Answer: A smart material is a material that can change its properties in response to external stimuli such as temperature, light, or stress. Unlike traditional materials, which have fixed properties, smart materials adapt or respond actively to their environment.

Question 2: Identify two common types of smart materials and describe their main properties.

Answer: Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) can return to a pre-defined shape when heated. Thermochromic materials change colour in response to temperature changes.

Question 3: Describe a real-world application where thermochromic materials could be used and explain why.

Answer: Thermochromic materials could be used in temperature-sensitive packaging or packaging labels to indicate if a product has been exposed to heat, ensuring safety and quality.

Question 4: Create a brief design brief for a new product that uses a shape memory alloy to improve user experience. Include the problem, target user, and a possible smart material application.

Answer: Problem: Elderly users find it difficult to open tightly sealed jars. Target user: Elderly individuals with limited hand strength. Application: Use a shape memory alloy hinge that automatically adjusts to loosen the lid when a button is pressed, making it easier to open.

Question 5: Sketch a simple design for a shoe insole that uses thermochromic material to indicate when the foot pressure is too high. Label the key features of your sketch.

Answer: A sketch showing an insole with embedded thermochromic zones that change colour under high pressure. Labels should include: thermochromic zones, pressure points, and the insole outline.

Question 6: Explain how a shape memory alloy can be used in a deployable medical device, such as a stent or a surgical tool.

Answer: A shape memory alloy can be compressed into a small form for insertion and then expand to its original shape when heated by body temperature, allowing minimally invasive deployment of devices like stents.

Question 7: Design a concept for a clothing accessory that changes colour depending on the wearer’s body temperature. Include a brief description of how it works.

Answer: A bracelet made with thermochromic material that changes colour from blue to red as body temperature increases, indicating heat levels. The thermochromic pigment reacts to temperature changes, altering its colour accordingly.

Question 8: Discuss one environmental advantage of using smart materials in product design.

Answer: Smart materials can reduce the need for additional components or energy-consuming mechanisms, leading to products that are more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Question 9: Identify a potential challenge when designing products with smart materials and suggest a way to address it.

Answer: Challenge: Smart materials may degrade or lose responsiveness over time. Solution: Use protective coatings or select durable smart materials suitable for the intended environment.