Concept Design (3cr)

Objective

After completing the course, the student understands and can describe the role and benefits of concept design as part of the mechanical and automation design process. The student knows the purpose of concept design, can describe operating principles, and is able to compare different concept alternatives based on technical and functional requirements.

The student masters the key principles of concurrent engineering and is able to integrate the needs of mechanical and automation design while utilizing virtual environments to advance testing and commissioning. The student is familiar with the basic structures of 3D mechanical models, such as kinematic joints, actuators, and conveyors.

The student is able to use simulation software to validate automation concepts and connect a virtual controller (virtual PLC) to the simulation model at signal level. The student can perform virtual commissioning and validate the mechanical functionality of the designed solution.

Content

- Concept design as a discipline (purpose of concept design, describing operating principles, mechanical and automation integration, concept comparison)
- Concurrent engineering (integrating mechanical and automation design, advancing testing and commissioning using virtual environments)
- Basic structures of 3D mechanical models (kinematic joints, actuators, conveyors)
- Use of simulation software for validating automation concepts (mechanical simulations)
- Virtual controller (virtual PLC solutions and connecting them to models, signal mapping)
- Virtual commissioning (validation of mechanical functionality)

Qualifications

It is recommended that the student has basic knowledge of 3D modeling as well as hydraulics and pneumatics.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student understands the basic purpose of concept design and can describe operating principles and compare simple concept alternatives. The student uses simulation software and a virtual controller according to instructions and recognizes the key principles of concurrent engineering. Virtual commissioning is completed with the instructor’s support.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student applies the principles of concept design independently and justifies concept selections based on technical and functional criteria. The student applies concurrent engineering appropriately and builds 3D models that include relevant kinematic joints, actuators, and conveyors. The student validates automation concepts using simulation software and connects a virtual controller to the model independently. In virtual commissioning, the student assesses correctly and in meaningful way mechanical functionality of the machine.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student analyses concept alternatives comprehensively, considering mechanics, automation, costs, quality, and functional performance during commissioning. The student applies concurrent engineering in depth and builds accurate 3D concept models that reflect industry-level implementation. The student uses simulation software and a virtual controller effectively, creating comprehensive signal-driven models. The student performs virtual commissioning independently, evaluates system functionality, and proactively identifies development needs.

Materials

Electric study material handed out by lecturer.