Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
22/07/2026 7:43 AM AWST
22/07/2026 7:43 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Prepare mechanical models for computer-aided engineering (CAE)
Prepare mechanical models for computer-aided engineering (CAE)
Unit of competency
National Code
MEM09155A
MEM09155A
State Code
WE899
WE899
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
16/04/2013
Field of Education
039999 - Engineering And Related Technologies, N.e.c.
Original Release Date
16/04/2013
Nominal Hours
40
Description
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.
Notes
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
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
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
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.
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.
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| W5413 | MEM09151A | Apply computer aided modelling and data management techniques to mechanical engineering designs | Unit of competency |
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEW06 | MEM09155 | Prepare mechanical models for computer-aided engineering (CAE) | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| J368 | MEM60112 | Advanced Diploma of Engineering | Qualification |
| J367 | MEM50212 | Diploma of Engineering - Technical | Qualification |
| W528 | MSA60108 | Advanced Diploma of Manufacturing Technology | Qualification |
| W526 | MSA50108 | Diploma of Manufacturing Technology | Qualification |