Parts of Everyday Objects

A chair has legs (to hold it up), a seat (to sit on), and a back (to lean against). Each part has a specific function. Designers think about what each part must DO before they decide what shape it should be.

"Form follows function" is a famous design principle. It means the shape (form) of a part should match what it needs to do (function). A wheel is round because rolling requires a round shape. A shelf is flat because things must sit on it without falling.

Individual parts are designed to fit together precisely. A door must fit its frame. A lid must fit its box. Designers use measurements to make sure parts connect properly. When parts fit well together, we say the object has good assembly.

Designers use object analysis to study existing products. They ask: What are all the parts? What shape is each part? What does each part do? Could any part be improved? This critical thinking skill is used throughout the entire design profession.