Development of cooperative education and basic engineering education: aided by 3D CAD and 3D RP modelling

Abstract

In our education of hearing-impaired students there is an emphasis on mechanical design and drawing, as drawing is a method of communication for engineers. They are expected to communicate by drawings, even though they are hearing impaired. 3D modelling is very effective as a teaching method: 1 for the development of teaching materials that can be understood by showing, in addition to the description in words; 2 for creating a model with a similar shape through the use of drawings and mechanical design drafting exercises; 3 for use as modelling materials that can be evaluated, with their own sophisticated design and through the students' own experiences; 4 for use of international and domestic cooperative education; 5 as a new addition in photoelastic stress test pieces. This paper reports on the recent status of University Drafting and Design Education using 3D CAD and 3D RP modelling.