MEM09155A
Prepare mechanical models for computer-aided engineering (CAE)

This unit of competency covers the application of mechanical modelling techniques for computer-aided engineering (CAE) purposes. It includes model creation for purposes such as computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and computer numerical control (CNC) applications, rapid prototyping and stress analysis, and as a basis for generating orthogonal drawings.

Application

This unit applies to modelling of mechanical, maintenance and manufacturing engineering products, plant and system for CAE applications. It is suitable for people working in design drafting and those pursuing technical qualifications and careers at engineering technician level.


Prerequisites

MEM23004A

Apply technical mathematics

MEM23109A

Apply engineering mechanics principles


Elements and Performance Criteria

1

Identify model parameters

1.1

Identify the engineering context of computer modelling

1.2

Identify sustainability issues related to required models

1.3

Identify work health and safety (WHS) and regulatory requirements related to modelling processes and materials

1.4

Identify the virtual or physical model parameters, form, function and features

1.5

Identify required model generation processes, including any required graphics generation, post-processing and physical modelling

1.6

Identify licensed technical and professional assistance for advice, as required

2

Develop model

2.1

Generate initial graphical model

2.2

Undertake initial consultation on model with stakeholders and adjust, as required

2.3

Prepare model for intended purpose

2.4

Trial model for purpose and complete investigative analysis or produce physical model

2.5

Evaluate model against design criteria with stakeholders and make adjustments, as required

2.6

Engage appropriate licensed technical and professional assistance for advice, as required

3

Finalise modelling

3.1

Prepare final model

3.2

Report and demonstrate results

3.3

Provide documentation, instructions, models and files, as required

3.4

Obtain sign-off

Required Skills

Required skills

Required skills include:

reviewing features, functions and context of engineering modelling, including imminent future developments

comparing available software, functions and features

communicating, participating and negotiating with:

stakeholders, team, cross-function support groups and experts

appropriate licensed technicians and professionals

modelling using a comprehensive range of techniques, such as:

creating and manipulating 3-D entities

using library files and adaptations

accessing supplier catalogues and databases

creating dimensioned orthographic projections from model

extracting dimensional properties from model:

post-processing model for analysis or physical modelling

finalising modelling by:

completing work

gaining approval and commissioning work

providing documentation and reports, as required

obtaining sign-off

Required knowledge

Required knowledge includes:

advantages and disadvantages of CAM using modelling compared to traditional manufacturing methods

implications to be taken into account when modelling (e.g. efficiency of production, generation of waste and life cycle considerations)

typical mechanical components, assemblies and layouts suitable for modelling

software functions and features

model creation techniques, including:

using and manipulating coordinate systems

creating 3-D entities, ruled and revolved surfaces

creating solids, editing and combining solids

manipulating entities and solids

library files

manipulations of solids and library files

3-D graphics from models, including rotated views and sections

dimensioned orthographic representations from models

typical modelling processes, including:

computer modelling

post-processing

prototyping and model manufacture

mathematical model analysis options, such as:

finite analysis of heat flows

finite analysis of stresses and deflections

physical modelling options

traditional, current and emerging modelling methods

WHS and regulatory requirements, codes of practice, risk assessment and registration requirements relevant to modelling task

job requirements that may create a need for licensed technical and professional services assistance

modelling compared to traditional representation methods, including:

pen and pencil graphics compared to wire frame, surface and solid models

computer animations compared to transparent overlay mobiles to test clearances and motions

solid models compared to isometric representations

computer library files compared to the use of reference charts and catalogue information

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to produce a variety of mechanical, manufacturing and maintenance-related models that are consistent with design information and relevant standards and conventions.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently:

review features, functions and context of engineering modelling

compare available software, functions and features

communicate, participate and negotiate with stakeholders, team, cross-function support groups and experts, appropriate licensed technicians and professionals

model using a comprehensive range of techniques

create dimensioned orthographic projections from model

extract dimensional properties from model

post-process model for analysis or physical modelling

complete work, commission and gain approval, document and report, and obtain sign-off

identify future developments in modelling.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment may occur on the job or in an appropriately simulated environment. Access is required to real or appropriately simulated situations, including work areas, materials and equipment, and to information on workplace practices and WHS practices.

Where applicable, reasonable adjustment must be made to work environments and training situations to accommodate ethnicity, age, gender, demographics and disability.

Access must be provided to appropriate learning and/or assessment support when required. Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with disabilities.

Method of assessment

Assessment must satisfy the endorsed Assessment Guidelines of the MEM05 Metal and Engineering Training Package.

Assessment methods must confirm consistency and accuracy of performance (over time and in a range of workplace relevant contexts) together with application of underpinning knowledge.

Assessment methods must be by direct observation of tasks and include questioning on underpinning knowledge to ensure correct interpretation and application.

Assessment may be applied under project-related conditions (real or simulated) and require evidence of process.

Assessment must confirm a reasonable inference that competency is not only able to be satisfied under the particular circumstance, but is able to be transferred to other circumstances.

Assessment may be in conjunction with assessment of other units of competency where required.

Guidance information for assessment

Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate and appropriate to the language and literacy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Models

Models may be:

virtual, such as computer generated solids models

physical models developed from the virtual model data

Model purpose

Models covered by this unit include mechanical, maintenance and manufacturing engineering products, plant and system models. Examples of models include:

computer model of a cavity mould for finite analysis of heat flows

computer model of a container, vehicle or frame for finite analysis of stresses and deflections

physical models of components produced for form, fit or aesthetic purposes

physical models, such as a once-off vehicle body panel, produced ready and fit for purpose

physical models, such as a sintered metal moulds or die capable of producing a limited run of production components

Features, functions and context of engineering modelling

Features, functions and context of mechanical modelling include:

techniques used for mechanical modelling

sustainability implications of modelling

WHS and regulatory requirements related to modelling processes and materials

model parameters, form, function and features, virtual or physical

processes required which may include those for generating graphics, post-processing and physical modelling

required licensed technical and professional assistance

Post-processor

A post-processor or code generator converts programmed instructions generated by CAM software or CAD package into CNC program code to control a machine tool

Post-processing model for analysis or physical modelling

Examples of post-processing model for analysis or physical modelling include:

setting up model with physical properties, mesh and nodes for finite element analysis (FEA)

processing dimensional data to create 3-D code for CAM operations

post-processing to create CNC data files to control CNC devices, including mills, lathes, machining centres, lasers, ultrasonic cutters and routers

modelling for rapid prototyping

Rapid prototyping

A variety of rapid prototyping processes are available, including:

selective laser sintering (SLS) which uses thermoplastics and metal powders

fused deposition modelling (FDM) which uses thermoplastics and eutectic metals

steriolithography (SLS) which uses a photopolymer

laminated paper manufacturing (LPM) which uses paper

electron beam melting (EBM) which uses titanium alloys

3-D printing (3-DP) which uses a variety of materials

Criteria for mechanical designs

Criteria for mechanical designs may include:

function

aesthetics

manufacturability and maintainability

marketability

sustainability

cost constraints

ergonomics, anthropometrics and physiology

facilities, plant and skills available

safety and risk

Mechanical components, assemblies and layouts

Mechanical assemblies may include:

chain drives, gear sets, pulley and belt drives

threads, fasteners and springs

shafts, keyways and splines

structural sections

machines, drives and transmissions

materials handling equipment, including belt conveyors, augers and pneumatic conveyors

guards, handrails and platforms

structures, vessels and tanks

fan, ventilation, air conditioning service and ducting

production process layouts

Appropriate licensed technical and professional assistance

Appropriate licensed technical and professional assistance may include:

technical support and advice relating to elements which have intrinsic dangers, such as:

high pressure

energised fluid vessels

high temperatures and heat energy capacity

wiring with high current control voltages above extra low voltage

professional support for technologies, such as:

specialist electric motor drives and controllers

specialist materials, plastics, metal alloys and nano materials

special processes, foundry, alloy welding, heat treatment, sealing and fastening

WHS, regulatory requirements and enterprise procedures

WHS, regulatory requirements and enterprise procedures may include:

WHS Acts and regulations

other relevant regulations and standards

industry codes of practice

risk assessments

registration requirements

safe work practices

Standards and codes

Standards and codes refer to all relevant Australian and international standards and codes applicable to a particular design task

Modelling and related software

Modelling and related software may include:

lumped parameter model

empirical, random data tested model

FEA software

model-based design


Sectors

Unit sector

Drawing, drafting and design


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.