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Introduction to Fabrication unit (ZAE105)

Introduction

This unit introduces key concepts, processes and principles of industry 4.0 driven digital fabrication in a manufacturing environment. You will undertake remote, team-based project work to create fabricated objects that respond to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 

Team members based at our tech-solutions hub will liaise with you to determine your fabrication and assembly requirements and support you in developing your finished product. Equipment at this facility includes 3D printers for additive manufacturing, Co2 laser cutters and a recycled plastic press. You will determine the appropriate fabrication method based on your design requirements and submit plans for the fabrication process. 

To achieve this, you will develop and apply a range of skills and knowledge relating to: 

  • Computer Aided Design 

  • Cloud based communication of digital fabrication information 

  • The Design Thinking process 

  • The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 

  • Quality assurance 

  • Reflective practice 

Other practical learning activities include component fabrication, additive manufacturing, laser-cutting, and forming and shaping by using various materials and approaches. You will prepare required toolsets and machinery, manage the fabrication process end-to-end, analyse outputs and finished products, and evaluate their conformance to requirements for safety, quality, velocity and cost.  

This unit also introduces learning through practice by exposing you to authentic learning experiences. These experiences are placed at the centre of learning and assessment, so you have the opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours necessary to respond to industry, community and/or global needs. You will be introduced to: - a range of methods, tools, techniques and approaches to practice - principles and perspectives such as values, ethics, empathy and leadership in real world scenarios - reflection and deliberative thinking as a means of developing knowledge, skills, attitudes and aspirations - ways of understanding problems and developing solutions through active inquiry. 

Summary

Unit name Introduction to Fabrication
Unit code ZAE105
Credit points 12.5
College/School University College
Discipline Pathways
Coordinator Mr Mark Shelton
Available as an elective? No
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Introductory

Sustainable Development Goals

The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

  • Use digital toolsets and digital literacies to develop engineering designs and models
  • Apply digital fabrication tools and techniques to plan and execute fabrication processes
  • Reflect on the effectiveness of the fabrication process in relation to sustainable development goals
  • Describe the effectiveness and efficiency of the online manufacturing process to maintain quality and safety of the design and build process

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

All students online: fornightly evening online tutorials, weekly self-directed learning modules
 

AssessmentAT3: Fabrication Review (20%)|AT1: Design Challenge (30%)|AT2: Fabrication Plan (50%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.