Criteria and constraints play different roles in evaluating a design. A criterion describes a desired outcome; a constraint restricts the acceptable design space. Our invented shade model compares covered area with material tokens. Changing the design can improve one measure while creating another problem, so both requirements must be checked together.
Engineering and scientific investigation · Discover & try
What should a design achieve, and what limits it?
Reading level 3 of 5 · IndependentChange
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Criterion
A feature used to judge success.
Constraint
A required limit on possible designs.
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See how it works
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Invented grid coverage and token costs make the performance criterion and budget constraint visible.
What to look for
- Check coverage and budget together.
- Find a design that meets both displayed requirements.
Explain what you noticed
A delivery robot must carry a parcel and fit through a 30 cm opening. Which statement is a size constraint?
Keep this idea: A solution needs to address the goal and respect its required limits.
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Source material checked 2026-10-28. Explanations and activities by Nepedia. Source links do not imply endorsement.
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