iQSim

Aims: iQSim develops and disseminates a new generation of training methodologies that are applicable to European wide mechanical industry sectors (fabrication industries, VET schools and SME¿s). Innovative online simulator services that are interconnected to state-of-the art Computer Algebra Services provide easy to use graphical interfaces that optimize cost- and time effective transfer of industrial production process and technology know-how to VET students. The combination of new pedagogical methodologies and simulator services, extend existing training methods by offering Quality Assurance of production process training when it starts, during a training session, and when it has been completed. Partnership: The consortium has a strong industrial presence with strong ties to research within utilization of new pedagogical methodologies (HiST), development of effective simulator tools that utilise CAS tools (HCR and UTH), and connections towards mechanical industry (HiST, CFL, KU and MHtE) leading to identification of inadequacies in existing training systems and international standards for effective train the trainer delivery. HiST offers expertise in distance learning methodologies, blended learning, and visual communication and collaboration services. The partnership has complementary expertise and the tasks Results: Simulator tools that include the most frequently used welding forms: i) square butt welding, ii) v-bevel welding, iii) fillet welding, iv) x-bevel welding, and v) calculation of production costs for the four welding forms above. The simulations handle the following main critical parameters in an industrial production process environment: I) The volume that must be welded depends of the angle and the thickness of the plate II) The added material depend on the number of beads and the number of layers III) The number of staff hours and the total production costs is affected by I and II IV) The maximum hardness in the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) and the extent of this zone The web-based simulator services will provide quality assurance design by including risk analysis into the training environment New pedagogical methodologies offer Quality Assurance to industrial production process training in VET schools by utilizing interactive simulator tools, in combination with for instance Activity Based Training (ABT). ABT follows the industrial production processes, by utilizing work orders and work packages. The final result of the training is a complete product. The training method may be utilized in a blended learning framework consisting of face-to-face on-site training, e-learning solutions, high quality video streaming, and video conferencing. ABT may be utilized in Skills Upgrading Processes where theory and practice are closely connected. The iQSim training delivery validates the new simulator tools in industrial training production process Instructional video material (streaming or DVD) for demonstration of skills, training methods, and simulator tools. Dissemination of the new learning environment to VET schools and companies that certify welders in Hungary, Sweden, Lithuania and Norway. Awareness rising and delivery of instructor training to welder trainers. Delivery of training courses to welder. Seminars, conferences and exhibitions for transfer of knowledge to stakeholders in Europe.' Impact: Participating welding instit