MEM23004A
Apply technical mathematics

This unit of competency covers the application of mathematical analysis, graphical and software techniques to engineering problems. It includes exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric equations involving single and double angles, sequences and series, two dimensional vector analysis, complex numbers, determinants and matrices.

Application

The unit applies to engineering or related activities requiring specific mathematical techniques. It is suitable for people giving technical support to design, operations or maintenance activities and those pursuing technical qualifications and careers at paraprofessional or technician level.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1

Determine scope of technical mathematical techniques required for an engineering application

1.1

Analyse an engineering application for required technical mathematical tasks

1.2

Develop systematic methods for layout and solution checking

1.3

Determine mathematical software required for analytical and graphical solutions and validate software using traditional solutions to simple examples

2

Apply technical mathematical techniques to engineering application

2.1

Use appropriate software for analytical and graphical solutions

2.2

Convert between different number systems

2.3

Use appropriate mathematical techniques required for analysis and solution

2.4

Use appropriate data representations to communicate the solution to others.

2.5

Report results and document calculations, graphs and analysis

Required Skills

Required skills

Required skills include:

solving mathematical problems using standard engineering software packages, and validating software results of simple examples analytically and/or graphically

manipulating values using decimal, binary and hexadecimal number systems

graphing and analysing functions for solutions:

exponential and logarithmic functions

trigonometric functions

using the techniques of sequences and series to solve simple mathematical problems

using the techniques of two dimensional vectors to solve mathematic and applied problems

solving problems involving complex quantities using the properties, operations and theorems of complex numbers

using determinant and matrix analysis to solve algebraic and vectorial problems

using probability to assess likely occurrences

Required knowledge

Required knowledge includes:

software for mathematical analysis and graphical representations

binomials and polynomials

exponential and logarithmic functions

trigonometric equations

sequences and series

two dimensional vectors

complex numbers

determinant and matrices

probability

stability analysis using plots

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 apply mathematical analysis, graphical and software techniques to engineering-related problems within the context of delegations and other checking and technical oversight procedures. The candidate may demonstrate competence through either working individually or as part of a team.

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

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

solve mathematical problems using software

validate software results of simple examples analytically and/or graphically

manipulate values using decimal, binary and hexadecimal number systems

graph and analyse exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions for solutions

use the techniques of sequences and series to solve simple mathematical problems

use the techniques of two dimensional vectors to solve mathematic and applied problems

solve problems involving complex quantities using the properties, operations and theorems of complex numbers

use determinant and matrix analysis to solve algebraic and vectorial problems

use probability to assess likely occurrences.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job then a simulated working environment must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team.

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.

Engineering applications related to mathematical techniques in this unit

Most engineering disciplines will have applications supported by the technical mathematics skills described in this unit, including mechanical, manufacturing, maintenance and mechatronics engineering. Examples of engineering applications requiring mathematical skills described in this unit may include:

vector analysis of force systems on beams and bodies

trigonometric plots related to waveforms for amplitude, frequency and phase shift analysis

matrix and determinant solutions of vector systems or simultaneous equations

complex plane analysis of control systems for stability analysis

Scope of technical mathematical techniques

The scope of technical mathematical techniques required for an engineering application will vary and may include:

standard mathematical software

decimal, binary and hexadecimal number systems

graph exponential and logarithmic functions required for the engineering application

solve trigonometric equations involving single and double angles

solve problems using simple binomials and polynomials

solve problems involving simple sequences and series in the engineering application

analyse two dimensional vectors

analyse complex numbers and represent graphically

analyse simple algebraic and vectorial problems using determinants and matrices

evaluate probability as a predictive tool in simple situations

Number system

Number systems may include:

decimal

binary

hexadecimal


Sectors

Unit sector

Engineering science


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.