Mechanical engineers research, design, build and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices such as motors, electrical generators and energy-consuming machines such as air conditioning systems. Mechanical engineers rely on a variety of portable and digital tools to perform their daily tasks. Here are some of the crucial tools every mechanical engineer needs.
Toggle staples
Toggle clamps are fast-acting tools that operate using the principle of toggle action to hold a part stationary in a locked position. They are especially needed for injection molding, welding applications, production lines and others. Among the various types of clamps are push-pull clamps. They are ideal for applications that require repetitive movements and high clamping forces to lock components quickly.
Computer-aided design (CAD) software
CAD is software that facilitates the creation, modification, and optimization of design processes to enable greater accuracy, more direct and accurate design iterations, and comprehensive part/project management documentation. It allows you to build parts and assemblies in 2D or 3D models to visualize your construction. Computer-aided design helps mechanical engineers make more accurate presentations and easy modifications to improve design quality.
3D printers
3D printing is an additive manufacturing application that helps in developing prototypes, improving designs and optimizing inventory. 3D technology involves the use of visualization software that allows you to have a better overview of your design, efficient adjustment and improvement of parts and is also a corrective method that helps correct previous design errors. It also makes it easy to modify the design using your and the client's ideas. 3D printing also helps you analyze your mechanical designs and can be used in the aeronautical and automotive industries. Although every mechanical engineer needs to use 3D printing technology in this modern era, you don't need to operate a 3D printer alone. Instead, you can upload your designs to a reliable online 3D printing platform service like Fictiv. By doing this, you will be able to receive your parts the next day, saving you time and effort.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Software
Engineers use FEA software to perform structural analysis of stresses and deflections on complex structures. It also helps predict production reactions to heat, air and fluid flow, vibration and cold. FEA not only helps engineers make better and faster design decisions, but it also helps solve structural engineering problems. This software facilitates simulation and allows you to import models directly from any CAD software, simulate individual parts and assembly geometry, and manage part interaction with automatic context. Additionally, they refine automatically generated meshes according to user needs and customize menus and layouts.
Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM)
Coordinate measuring machines are computerized measuring tools that are extremely accurate in taking measurements. The CMM is ideal for parts and components that require extreme dimensional accuracy and can automatically measure parts to ensure they are within tolerance. A CMM comprises the machine itself, the measuring probe and the control system and is used in metrology in manufacturing industries.
MATLAB (Matrix Laboratory)
MATLAB is a programming language or environment that performs more complex numerical analysis to provide a programming solution using matrices and vectors. Its plotting capability allows for easy simulation and quick display of results. With MATLAB, mechanical engineers can model, simulate and prototype, perform data analysis, explore and visualize, develop algorithms and applications, including building graphical user interfaces.
Final grade
Mechanical engineering is essential in all manufacturing settings. These tools help mechanical engineers carry out their daily tasks with ease and professionalism.
