IMechE UNITEN Student Chapter: Report on the IMechE-UNITEN First Industrial Visit to Proton

The IMechE-UNITEN Student Chapter held its very first industrial visit to Proton’s Shah Alam manufacturing plant in conjunction with the ‘Proton Technology Week’ on the 4^th of August 2008 which fell on a Monday. The trip was intended to expose students to the entire process of manufacturing a car.

There were 19 IMechE-UNITEN student members who participated in the trip although 40 slots were provided. The amount of participants was discouraging due to the time constraints. Dr. Hanim Salleh and Mr. Abdul Talip Zulkarnain accompanied the group of students during the entire trip. Participants were required to gather in front of the ATM near the library by 2.00 pm and the group of students departed at 2.15p m by UNITEN’s bus.

Upon arrival at Proton’s Shah Alam manufacturing plant, the group was greeted by representatives of Proton and goodie bags were given. Shortly after that, the group was brought to the first stop of the tour which was the virtual reality centre. Over there, the group was treated with an interesting presentation with the participants using specially prepared goggles to simulate a 3D effect from the video presentation. The presentation gave a brief introduction of what Proton does in its manufacturing plant. The next stop was the “Computer Aided Engineering” section where various mechanisms for the car were modeled using CATIA.

After that, the group was brought to another area where clay models of cars were done. Proton also explained on how milling was done on the full scale clay models using a programmable milling machine. After that, the group was in for a treat as Proton generously showcased their concept models and also details of their upcoming vehicle which is the MPV. The next stop was where Proton conducts most of its safety and reliability tests which is the Component, Material, Strength and Safety (CMSS) Lab. Various tests were conducted such as the multi axial road test and the roof crush test just to name a few.

The next area was where Proton showcased their prototypes and the one that caught the eye of everyone was the Proton Gen-2 fitted with hybrid technology. The group quickly moved on to the next stop which was the Emission Lab where Proton conducts test to ensure that the gas emission from their cars are within the limit set by environmental laws. The next stop was the Engine Dyno lab where the engine’s power as well as reliability was put to test. After that was the Chassis Lab where Proton explained about ride and handling to the students. The final stop was the noise lab where the group was brought into this room specially designed to conduct various test concerning noises coming from their vehicles’ components. The trip to the plant ended with a group photo and everyone headed back satisfied although it was tiring.

The first industrial visit was successful and there were no major issues that needed to be addressed. The only issue was the short notice given by Proton about the event which ultimately led to a less than desirable number of participants. (Click the thumbnail to enlarge the picture)