Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select and use a printer to produce three-dimensional (3D) objects from low to moderate precision data file sets.
It applies to individuals, employed in a range of industry sectors, who use 3D graphics and scanning data to replicate 3D objects.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Determine the print requirements | 1.1 Printed object requirements are determined against specifications and confirmed with client 1.2 Appropriate printer and materials are selected to meet client specifications 1.3 Data files are uploaded into the printer software and 3D model is checked to ensure it meets specifications 1.4 Quality of data file is assessed and possible adjustments are discussed with client 1.5 File is adjusted and saved in required printer format |
2. Prepare the 3D printer | 2.1 Print construction time is determined and client approval obtained 2.2 Personal protective equipment (PPE) is selected and fitted in accordance with work health and safety (WHS) procedures 2.3 Prestart checks are conducted on the 3D printer to ensure correct operation 2.4 Printer settings are adjusted for specified tolerances and client specifications 2.5 Printer is charged with specified construction material 2.6 Printer build platform is prepared according to manufacturer's operating procedures |
3. Operate and monitor the 3D printer | 3.1 Printer is operated in accordance with manufacturer's operating procedures and WHS procedures 3.2 Sensor displays and readings are checked so that they remain within the correct operating parameters throughout the job 3.3 Printed object is monitored to check that it is forming as per client specifications, and adjusted as necessary 3.4 Consumables are monitored and recharged as required 3.5 Errors and faults in operation are reported to relevant personnel for maintenance or repair |
4. Remove and prepare model for client | 4.1 Printed 3D object is removed from the printer bed according to manufacturer's operating procedures 4.2 Support framework is removed using appropriate tools, chemicals and PPE, according to manufacturer's operating procedures 4.3 3D object is cleaned and prepared against client specifications |
5. Finalise the shut down and reset printer | 5.1 Printer is reset according to the manufacturer's operating procedures 5.2 Printer and worksite are cleaned according to organisational procedures and manufacturer's operating procedures 5.3 Printer is shut down according to organisational procedures |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
communicate with client to ascertain needs
interpret specifications and confirm client requirements for a three-dimensional (3D) printed object
prepare data files, printer and materials to suit the requirements of print job
use a 3D printer to produce a 3D object that meets client specifications
prepare, operate and shut down a 3D printer according to manufacturer's safety and organisational requirements.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
describe the features of common 3D printers including:
files types used
level of precision
basic operation
common applications
hazards associated with use
construction materials
construction technology
describe the impact that the file type and graphics quality has on the output of the printed object
identify and describe the printer parameters including:
scale and build platform size
number of models to output
print speed
list and describe work health and safety (WHS) considerations for consumables used in current 3D printers
list and describe WHS requirements for working with technologies currently used for 3D printing
explain the purpose and process for using and safely removing structure supports in 3D printing
describe the steps in cleaning a 3D object.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the printing and graphic arts field of work and include access to:
3D printer and manufacturers' operating procedures
3D printer ready files
consumables necessary to print 3D models
relevant personal protective equipment.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational education and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1, 1.2, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 | Analyses graphics files and other documentation to determine 3D printing requirements |
Writing | 1.5 | Names data files according to specified naming conventions |
Oral communication | 1.1, 1.4, 2.1, 3.5 | Effectively participates in verbal exchanges using active listening and questioning to convey and clarify printing information |
Numeracy | 2.1, 2.4, 3.2 | Uses mathematical processes to estimate time Performs mathematical calculations to check and adjust software to reflect appropriate tolerances for printing |
Navigate the world of work | 2.2, 2.6, 3.1, 3.5, 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 | Understands roles and responsibilities for tasks and makes basic decisions on work completion parameters Complies with organisation and manufacturer's procedures |
Interact with others | 1.1, 1.4, 2.1, 3.5 | Understands what to communicate, with whom and how, in routine work situations |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.5, 2.6, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 | Makes routine decisions and implements standard procedures for routine tasks Accepts responsibility for addressing less predictable problems and initiates standard procedures in response, applying problem solving processes Uses familiar digital technologies and systems to control equipment, access information, enter data and save files |
Sectors
Printing