Future skills in mechanical design

As technology and the engineering industry continue to evolve, mechanical engineers will need to adapt to the changing industry demands. With such changes, the skills of successful mechanical designers will also change and adapt. Here are some of the future skills in mechanical design.

Industry 4.0 skills

Industry 4.0 (or the fourth industrial revolution) is the next phase in the manufacturing sector’s digitalisation. As such, the skills and competencies that mechanical designers need to develop will also change.

CAD tools

The first of these is the growing importance of 3D modelling combined with real-time data integration. Mastering advanced CAD software, such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD, are also essential. This is to allow mechanical designers to create accurate simulations of physical objects.

Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation tools will also be a vital skill for testing structural integrity, stress analysis, thermal properties, and fluid flow.

IoT and embedded systems

As the Internet of Things continues to grow, its role in mechanical design will become even more important. As such, mechanical designers need to be able to understand how they can incorporate sensors, actuators, and control systems into their designs.

Knowledge of wireless communication protocols is another future skill in mechanical design. Knowledge of MQTT, Zigbee, and Bluetooth is essential for designing systems that can communicate seamlessly across different networks.

AI and machine learning integration

As artificial intelligence continues to grow, mechanical designers need to be able to integrate AI and machine learning into the mechanical process. One method of achieving this is data-driven design, where mechanical designers need to leverage AI/ML tools to optimise their designs based on performance data, material usage, and productivity efficiency.

Also, AI-based design tools are starting to see rapid growth, such as Autodesk’s Generative Design. These allow mechanical designers to create optimised designs by specifying goals, constraints, and materials. This then allows the AI algorithms to generate multiple design solutions. Mechanical designers need to be able to implement these tools successfully to support the design process.

Automation and robotics

Alongside AI and machine learning, automation and robotics are experiencing rapid growth within mechanical design. Mechanical designers also need to be familiar with using these tools for design.

Factoring in automated processes will become an established part of the role, requiring knowledge of robotic systems, CNC machinery, and how mechanical components will interface with automation solutions.

How robotics impacts mechanical design will also require additional skills. A blend of mechanical, electrical, and software design skills will be essential for creating systems that interact with robots or automated machines. This will be particularly the case in smart factories.

Other Industry 4.0 skills

Alongside the skills outlined above, the following skills will also be vital to the growth of Industry 4.0:

  • Additive manufacturing and 3D printing
  • Cyber-physical systems
  • Data Analytics
  • Augmented and virtual reality
  • Sustainability and green design
  • The growing importance of soft skills, including continuous learning, problem-solving, innovation, and collaboration

Emerging technologies

Alongside the Industry 4.0 skills that are becoming an essential part of mechanical design roles, several emerging technologies are transforming this sector. Here are some of the most prominent:

Digital twin technology

Digital twins are virtual replicas of physical systems or components. They allow engineers to simulate and monitor performance in real time, predict failures, and improve product lifecycle management.

Generative design

Generative design uses AI and machine learning to explore a wide range of design solutions. Designers input parameters like weight, materials, and constraints, and the software generates optimised designs.

Additive manufacturing

Additive manufacturing (AM) allows designers to create complex geometries, reduce material waste, and produce prototypes rapidly. It is transitioning from prototyping to production-grade manufacturing, especially in aerospace, medical devices, and automotive industries.

Smart materials

Smart materials can change their properties in response to external stimuli, such as shape-memory alloys, piezoelectric materials, and thermochromic materials. Self-healing materials and materials with embedded sensors are emerging as key technologies.

Virtual prototyping

Advanced simulation tools enable engineers to model and simulate the physical behaviour of components and systems under various conditions, reducing the need for physical prototypes. Combining fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and structural analysis are all advancements in virtual prototyping.

Continuous learning opportunities

With the changes and advances within the mechanical design field, continuous learning will be essential to keep up with changes and advances. There are several methods or opportunities for pursuing continuous learning to learn or develop skills and knowledge:

  • Online courses and certifications
  • Professional development programs
  • Industry conferences and workshops
  • Learning new software tools
  • Keeping up with design standards
  • Research papers and journals
  • Collaborative projects and hackathons
  • Mentorship and networking

Mechanical designers need to embrace the changes and advances within the field if they wish to remain competitive and gain lucrative job positions. The ability to integrate software, data, and materials innovation into design processes will be key to navigating the technological advancements in the field.