The Fundamentals exam focuses on the basics of additive manufacturing, including a comprehensive overview of additive manufacturing, the seven additive manufacturing technologies, and basic safety guidelines. The Fundamentals certification is ideal for individuals working in or seeking to work in additive manufacturing roles in automotive, aerospace, and medical equipment.
Apply additive manufacturing terminology and concepts in contexts requiring understanding of AM processes, steps, applications, and industry use casesDifferentiate AM processes and materials when selecting technologies for various production, prototyping, or industrial environmentsEvaluate advantages and limitations of AM to inform decisions involving cost, accuracy, material behavior, and integration with traditional manufacturingApply design‑for‑additive‑manufacturing principles to optimize component geometry, process simulation, and internal features for AM environmentsPrepare and manage AM data files by selecting correct formats, generating builds, designing supports, and creating slice files for machine executionDocument and monitor build parameters using process documentation and statistical process control in production‑quality AM contextsImplement AM applications for alignment, fixturing, tooling, and workflow optimization in operational manufacturing environmentsAdapt AM solutions to practical shop‑floor needs such as part staging, tool storage, and production supportIntegrate AM-produced components into broader manufacturing processes requiring function, fit, and repeatabilityInterpret prints and coordinate systems to program robot motions and positioning within AM setupsApply robot programming principles to execute precise AM deposition paths and automated processesUse coordinate frame setup to ensure accurate robot‑based part manipulation or machine interfacingCreate basic robot programs to support additive manufacturing operations requiring controlled movement or logic sequencesDevelop non‑motion logic structures to manage AM workflow events, system checks, and interlocksManage robot software files by backing up, restoring, and maintaining system images in automation‑supported AM environmentsConfigure I/O and communication links to integrate AM equipment with sensors, peripherals, and automation networksSet end‑of‑arm tooling parameters for AM tasks requiring gripping, material handling, or finishing operationsProgram advanced motion paths and auxiliary axes to support complex AM deposition strategies or hybrid manufacturing workflowsDevelop advanced non‑motion commands to handle system logic, event coordination, and multi‑machine integrationTroubleshoot robot configuration errors to restore reliable AM system operationResolve Dual Check Safety faults in environments requiring strict compliance with robotic safety protocolsImplement iRVision systems by configuring hardware, establishing frames, performing calibrations, and applying 2D vision processes for AM inspection tasksApply vision‑based error proofing to verify part placement, geometry, or build accuracy in AM workflowsProgram robot vision instructions to guide automated decision‑making in AM production environments