A framework of contextual knowledge in three dimensional computer aided design for mechanical engineering undergraduates

Abstract

Today’s industries demand engineering graduates who are equipped with good knowledge and skills in using modern Three Dimensional Computer Aided Design (3D CAD). However, the recent research findings show that there is a lack of contextual knowledge among Mechanical Engineering Undergraduates when utilizing 3D CAD modeling software to develop a good product design. Most of them are not able to contextualize their created model in the aspects of manufacturing and user applications. This study was conducted to explore the essential contextual knowledge elements in the process of developing 3D CAD models among practitioners in manufacturing industries. The constructs of digital product modeling were established for this study, known as the contexts of Model Creation, Model Manipulation, Model Visualization and Model Transfer. A transcendental phenomenology approach was used as the main research design of this study. The participants of this study were practicing engineers from a shipbuilding company in Peninsular Malaysia. They have been purposefully selected to explore their experiences in utilizing the elements of contextual knowledge in 3D CAD modeling applications in their daily design works. All collected data were analyzed using phenomenological analysis. The textural and structural descriptions were gathered to capture what and how the essential contextual knowledge elements from each practicing engineer in the application of 3D CAD modeling within four digital product modeling contexts. Relevant documents were analyzed from practicing engineers to triangulate the main data for this study. The study has successfully developed a framework of Contextual Knowledge in 3D CAD modeling, which consists of three main elements: Realization, Design Intention and Normalization. By injecting these three elements in teaching and learning 3D CAD modeling, students can be expected to develop a creative and innovative product design and may lead to better usability of 3D CAD software in the product modeling process.