Mechanical Design for Integrated Laser-Cutting Automation
Engineering, IT, Mathematics and Statistics
ABOUT THE INDUSTRY PARTNER
Metallum Fabrication Pty Ltd is a precision engineering and metal-fabrication company specialising in laser cutting, product development and custom manufacturing. The company combines advanced fabrication capability with in-house mechanical and software engineering to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions for industrial and commercial clients.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Hands on Experience – An opportunity to work on real projects, applying them into practical scenarios
- Collaborative Culture – An opportunity to work in an environment that encourages collaboration enabling interns to learn from peers and contribute to team projects
- Networking Opportunities – Invitations to company events and professional gatherings to build connections within our industry.
- Supportive Leadership- Managers and team leaders who prioritise the growth and development of the staff.
RESEARCH TO BE CONDUCTED
This research will develop mechanical solutions that enable the laser cutter to be automatically fed, positioned and operated overnight without supervision. Work includes designing automated loading and handling systems, improving motion control accuracy and optimising workflow reliability. Outcomes will support Metallum in creating cost-efficient, in-house automation for extended production hours.
SKILLS WISH LIST
If you’re a postgraduate research student and meet some or all the below we want to hear from you. We strongly encourage women, indigenous and disadvantaged candidates to apply:
- Mechanical design and CAD proficiency
- Understanding of automated material feeding/handling systems
- Ability to analyse production workflows and identify efficiency gains
- Interest in automation, robotics or motion control
- Experience with prototyping and mechanical testing
- Awareness of cost-driven design and commercial manufacturing constraints
- Strong problem-solving, communication and collaborative skills
RESEARCH OUTCOMES
The project will deliver a fully operational automated material-feeding and handling system that enables Metallum’s laser cutter to run autonomously overnight. Under the guidance of senior mechanical and software engineers, the intern will contribute to mechanical design, prototyping, testing and system integration to industrial standards.
The research will produce a complete mechanical design package, including CAD assemblies, detailed drawings, actuator and motion-system specifications, and analysis of stiffness, repeatability and dynamic stability. The system will incorporate automated loading mechanisms, fixturing, linear-motion components, sensors and safety interlocks required for unattended operation. The intern will support motion-control tuning, accuracy testing and workflow optimisation.
Prototypes will be refined and manufactured using Metallum’s in-house fabrication capability. Production-scale trials will measure throughput, cycle time, reliability and utilisation during extended operation, demonstrating clear commercial benefits such as reduced labour costs and increased machine availability.
The project will also deliver integration procedures linking mechanical subsystems with the laser cutter’s control software, supported by documentation for operation, maintenance and future scalability. The final outcome is a robust automation solution installed and in active use at Metallum.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
The intern will receive $3,300 per month of the internship, usually in the form of scholarship payments.
It is expected that the intern will primarily undertake this research project during regular business hours and maintain contact with their academic mentor throughout the internship either through face-to-face or phone meetings as appropriate.
The intern and their academic mentor will have the opportunity to negotiate the project’s scope, milestones and timeline during the project planning stage.
Please note, applications are reviewed regularly and this internship may be filled prior to the advertised closing date if a suitable applicant is identified. Early submissions are encouraged.
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