All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: |
Further Education and Training Certificate: Mechatronics |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
67649 | Further Education and Training Certificate: Mechatronics | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes | ||||
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
MERSETA - Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Education and Training Authority | OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
Further Ed and Training Cert | Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology | Manufacturing and Assembly | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 157 | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | Regular-Unit Stds Based |
REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
Passed the End Date - Status was "Reregistered" |
SAQA 06120/18 | 2018-07-01 | 2023-06-30 | |
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
2024-06-30 | 2027-06-30 |
In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise. |
This qualification replaces: |
Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
22772 | National Certificate: Mechatronics | Level 4 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4 | 151 | Complete |
This qualification is replaced by: |
Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
102004 | Occupational Certificate: Mechatronics Technician | Not Applicable | NQF Level 05 | 923 | Complete |
PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
Purpose:
Mechatronics is essentially about engineering, computer hardware, software and network systems and how they interface, in an integrated manner, to produce a consistent and functional outcome. For this reason, professionals working in the Mechatronics field are required to install, maintain and generally see to the effective running of the various aspects of the system. The Mechatronics NQF Level 4 qualification is about competencies required to install, test, and configure systems at an advanced level. The various systems include industrial network systems, electro-hydraulic systems, electro-pneumatic systems, industrial robot systems. At this level, learners get involved with large systems that are typically used in a modern manufacturing plant that makes use of robotics for large scale manufacturing production. The Qualification will enable qualifying learners to: Hand skills and advanced theoretical and analytical skills play a large role in this qualification. Qualifying learners will also be able to maintain and support the various policies and procedures related to the safety, health, environment and quality systems that govern their workplace. Through this qualification, the learner gains competencies required for industrial systems work, as a technical assistant, in most fields of engineering, in the various sectors of the economy. At NQF Level 4, however, the learner is able to function with minimum supervision. Depending on the work context, the qualifying person is able to pursue learning opportunities as an apprentice. Rationale: The manufacturing industry is characterised by technologically sophisticated automation processes using Computerised Integrated Manufacturing systems (CIM) that integrate the fields of mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering and control and information technology. The field of Mechatronics deals with the installation, maintenance and commissioning of such CIM systems that must conform to all safety aspects as per regulations and legislation. People working in the Mechatronics field require specialised technical skills and knowledge as well as highly developed hand skills to enable them to install, maintain and commission Mechatronic systems. This is the third qualification in a series for learners who want to follow a career in Mechatronics. In addition to being able to operate systems, the learner should be able to understand and apply sensing devices, as well as variable speed control devices. This will enable the qualifying person to operate in an automated industrial production setting. In the South African context-in line with global trends-there is a growing need for technical workers from the lowest elementary levels of mechanised manufacturing to the highest level of sophisticated specialised work in robotics. Motor manufacturers and other mechanised mass manufacturers are increasingly reliant on employees that are competent in the integrated fields that make up the field of Mechatronics. The fact that global players in the motor industry are increasingly using South Africa as a manufacturing base for export purposes is indicative of the continued growth outlook in the long-term. |
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
This assume that learners are competent in:
Recognition of Prior Learning: This Qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through Recognition of Prior Learning. Whether a learner attends formal courses or acquires the required skills through informal means, the same standards apply as per the matrix of Unit Standards and Exit Level Outcomes. The Qualification and the Unit Standards have been written in such a way that the learning has to be assessed in an integrated way. Assessors will assess evidence to establish what the learners know, understand and can do. Such evidence may be gathered through course related activities and/or through work related activities. In cases where candidates do not attend formal learning programs, assessors should seek work related evidence as far as possible. Assessors should ensure that learners submitting themselves to RPL are thoroughly briefed prior to assessment. Learners will be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence in the prescribed format to be assessed for formal recognition. Where courses are provided for learners, institutions can use the Unit Standards and this Qualification to assess learning achievements. For learners who are not able to achieve the outcomes, providers can then use the Unit Standards and Qualification to determine a specific learning program to suit the learning needs of the candidate. Access to the qualification: Access to the qualification is open to learners who have completed the National Certification: Mechatronics at NQF Level 3. |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
The Qualification consists of Fundamental, Core and Elective Unit Standards. A minimum of 157 Credits is required to achieve this Qualification. The credits are allocated as follows:
Fundamental Component: The Fundamental Component consists of the following, which is compulsory for all learners: All fundamental unit standards are compulsory (56 Credits). It is therefore compulsory for learners to do Communication in two different South African Languages, one at NQF Level 4 and the other at NQF Level 3. Core Component: The core component consists of 4 Unit Standards totalling 51 Credits. All the Unit Standards are compulsory for all the learners. Elective Component: There are 3 areas of specialization: Learners are to do all the unit standards prescribed for one specialisation and choose of additional unit standard from one of the other specialisation to give a total of at least 50 Credits for the Elective Component. Specialisation Area 1: Controls/Automation has 4 Unit Standards with 44 Credits: Specialisation Area 2: Hydraulics/Pneumatics/Automation with 2 Unit Standards and 40 Credits: Specialisation Area 3: Sensors and measurement with 2 Unit Standards and 25 Credits: |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Install, commission, test and maintain three phase AC/DC machines, control and switch gear.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of power electronics technology and an ability to install, test and configure manual and software driven variable speed control drives. 3. Demonstrate the understanding and ability to install and configure local area network (LAN) and related industrial network systems. 4. Install and programme sensors, industrial Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's) and Human Machine Interface (HMI). 5. Install and maintain electro-pneumatic and electro-hydraulic systems. 6. Demonstrate an understanding and ability to programme and use industrial robotic systems. 7. Solve a variety of problems, both familiar and unfamiliar, within a Mechatronics environment. 8. Communicate and present information. Critical Cross-field Outcomes: This will be achieved when qualifying learners: Identify and solve problems: > Configure PLC hardware, software and sensor/actuator addresses specifications correctly. > Configure software variable speed control. > Carry out installations in a manner that meets specification. Work effectively with others as a member of a team or organisation: Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively: Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information: Communicate effectively by using mathematical and language skills in the modes of oral and written presentations: Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others: This will be achieved when qualifying learners: Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem solving contexts do not exist in isolation: This will be achieved when qualifying learners: |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1:
1.1 AC/DC machine installation and commissioning is done according to specifications and circuit diagrams. 1.2 Testing and maintenance on AC/DC machines meets specifications. 1.2 Safe working practices are adhered to in accordance with organizational working standards. 1.4 Implications of not adhering to the sequence of activities and operations as per operational procedures are explained. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2: 2.1 Power electronic circuits are constructed and tested to meet specifications and quality requirements. 2.2 Variable speed control components are selected according to circuit diagrams. 2.3 Electrical and mechanical installation are done to meets quality standards. 2.4 Software variable speed control drives are configured according to specifications. 2.5 Power electronics technology and the installation, testing and configuration of variable speed control drives are discussed. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3: 3.1 Networked subsystems meet specifications. 3.2 Industrial network systems are installed and configured to specifications. 3.3 Hardware and software are discussed according to network requirements. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4: 4.1 PLC hardware, software and sensor/actuator addresses of a PLC are configured to specifications. 4.2 Advanced PLC control programmes are written to meet job specifications. 4.3 Advanced PLC circuit installation and programming meets specifications. 4.4 Programme and installations are tested and debugged according to requirements. 4.5 Industrial PLC's are explained according to manufacturer specifications. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5: 5.1 Installation is done to meets specifications. 5.2 Tests are performed and results recorded according to procedure. 5.3 Integrated PLC controlled circuit programming meets specifications. 5.4 Electro-pneumatic and electro-hydraulic systems are discussed according to manufacturer specifications. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 6: 6.1 Robot programming meets job requirements and specifications. 6.2 Robot is used to meet quality and output requirements. 6.3 Issues related to the use and programming of industrial robots are discussed. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 7: 7.1 Solutions to problems are based on a clear analysis of information gathered through diagnostic procedures. 7.2 Procedures are modified to respond to unfamiliar problems where appropriate. 7.3 Issues related to familiar and unfamiliar problems arising in the Mechatronics environment are discussed. 7.4 All actions related to problem solving are accurately recorded for future reference. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 8: 8.1 Conditions, evidence and incidences are reported accurately in a timely manner and discussed with peers and management. 8.2 Data gathered through diagnostic procedures is examined systematically and analysis is repeated until problem is solved. 8.3 Records are available for scrutiny and future reference. Integrated Assessment: Integrated assessment evaluates the learner's ability to combine actions and ideas across a range of activities and knowledge areas. The integrated assessment must specifically assess the learner's ability to: The assessment will require assessment methods which measure and evaluate evidence generated during learning and on-the-job activities. Because assessment practices must be open and transparent, fair, valid and reliable; ensuring that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, an integrated assessment approach is incorporated into the Qualification. A variety of methods must be used in assessment tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working or will work. Where it is not possible to assess the learner at the workplace, simulations, case studies, role plays and other similar techniques should be used to provide a context appropriate to the assessment. The term integrated assessment implies that theoretical and practical components should be assessed together. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the Unit Standards should be integrated and, during integrated assessment, the assessor should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment tools and methods. Combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies should be assessed. Assessment should further ensure that all Specific Outcomes, embedded knowledge and Critical Cross Field Outcomes are evaluated in an integrated way. Assessors must assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience. |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
Introduction:
The comparative review is made from leading technology countries that have a competitive edge in Mechatronics, namely the United Kingdom (UK), the United States of America (USA) and Germany. The language barrier made it a challenge to access countries like Japan and South Korea. In this international comparability survey, the various ways of achieving a Mechatronics qualification and the various course configuration sets are reviewed. Comparable aspects of the various programs in terms of entry requirements, credits awarded, approaches to learning and work, as well as Exit Level Outcomes are highlighted. The United Kingdom: There are a number of avenues for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) Course code (HNC 6HHH; HNC/EMt) and the National Diploma (HND Course code (HND 63HH; HND/ EMt). Various organisations approach the achievement of Mechatronics qualifications in different ways. For example, ASME's uses a case study problem-solving with video demonstrations. The emphasis is placed on physical understanding rather than being mathematically oriented. Moray College Scotland (Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA): The SQA enables the provision of Mechatronics at Higher Level (Higher Engineering Frameworks) through the Higher National Certificate (HNC) Ref G87M 15 and the Higher National Diploma (HND) Ref G87M 16. The following is a course outline for the Mowray College, in Scotland, for the HNC Mechatronics award: Entrance Requirements: Passes in: Duration: HNC full time 1 year; part time 2 years or more. HND full time 2 years, part time 4-5 years. Progression: After HNC further study, one may include HND Mechatronics, BSc Mechatronics Engineering or a related course at Level 1. After the HND, further study may include BSc Mechatronics Engineering or a related course, with the possibility of entering at Level 2. Key elements of the Scottish qualification in relation to the South African Qualification Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) HNC Mechatronics Engineering: G87L 15, Level 2: Core units (excluding optional units): Level 3: Core units (excluding optional units): Level 4: Core units (excluding optional units): Bridwater College, Uk: Higher National Certificate in Mechatronics Engineering. Course Structure (Core modules-C): Business Management Techniques, Analytical methods for Engineers, Engineering, Project, Plant and process principles others: Engineering design, pneumatics and hydraulics, programmable logic controllers, further Mechatronics, digital and analogue electronics. Entry requirements: a Level 3 Qualification, preferably in the numerate or engineering discipline. Duration: 1 day a week for two years. Post study opportunities: A broad range of opportunities in engineering systems, design and manufacturing, maintenance, electronics, maintenance, as a technician, Engineer, Technician or Project Leader. United States of America: Mechatronics is of particular importance to the US military, where Congress ordered, in 2000, that a third of ground vehicles in the military must become robotic by 2015 (robots are currently being used by the US military in Iraq and Afghanistan). This is according to the Undergraduate Mechatronics course design project at the United States Military Academy (USMA). There are number of community college level, undergraduate and graduate levels of study in Mechatronics. Community level college courses allow grade 12 Level learners to study a semester based diploma program. Germany: Siemens Certified Mechatronic Systems Assistant Programme: The international group, Siemens, runs the Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) program. Its own elite international technical college (Siemens Technik Akademie Berlin) has developed the Siemens Mechatronic Systems Certifications Programme (SMSCP). It is offered by partnering schools worldwide including the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (North America), Nanjing College of Information Technology (China), Amatrol (U.S) and VCAT (Germany). The course aims to equip workers in: precision engineering, mechatronics, medical technology, marine and electronics related industry sectors with up-to-date information in operations, maintenance and designing of an integrated mechatronic system. Trainees are issued with the WSQ Certified Mechatronic Systems Assistant (WSQ CMSA) Certificate upon successful completion of the programme and passing the modular assessments and the Siemens Level 1 Certification Examination. Siemens Technik Akademie Berlin. Certified mechatronic systems assistant programme: Level 1: Siemens Certified Mechatronic Systems Assistant: Level 2: Siemens Certified Mechatronic Systems Associate: Level 3: Siemens Certified Mechatronic Systems Professional: The Siemens Level 1 programme is tailored for workers who are currently employed or for those who wish to be employed in the manufacturing & automation industry as Mechatronic Systems Operator, Machine/Equipment Operator, and Line Leader. Articulation: The WSQ CMSA certification is jointly issued by WDA and SPE Berlin and is recognised both locally and internationally. In addition, trainees who complete Level 1 of the programme may attain the "Precision Engineering Workforce Skills Qualification Certificate" by completing another 9 modules of the PE WSQ programme, or the "Precision Engineering Workforce Skills Qualification Higher Certificate" by completing another 6 modules under the PE WSQ framework. Up-skilling Opportunities: Workers can be up-skilled through hands-on training in complex mechatronic systems, systems management, troubleshooting and repair of systems malfunctions, systems design and process optimisation. Career options on completion: Level 1: Machine Operators can become Senior Machine Operators. Level 2: A Mechatronic Systems Technician who completes Level 2 of the programme may progress to become a Supervisor or Senior Technician. Level 3: An Assistant Engineer who completes Level 3 of the programme may move up to the position of Engineer. Conclusion: The international comparability exercise above demonstrates that the courses, qualifications and learning programs surveyed all have common outcomes and similar learning areas of focus. However content at equivalent levels may vary due to areas of emphasis, as well as the nature and nuanced application of study program related to a corporate program, like that of SIEMENS workplace. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
The qualification articulates horizontally to:
There are no qualifications that articulate vertically with this series of qualifications. |
MODERATION OPTIONS |
CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
The following criteria should be applied by the relevant ETQA:
An appropriate qualification in the field of engineering at NQF Level 5 or higher with a minimum of four years` experience in the field of Mechatronics. Registration as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. |
REREGISTRATION HISTORY |
As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. |
NOTES |
This qualification replaces qualification 22772, "National Certificate: Mechatronics", Level 4, 151 credits.
. N/A |
UNIT STANDARDS: |
ID | UNIT STANDARD TITLE | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | CREDITS | |
Core | 13118 | Install and programme advanced industrial programmable logic controllers | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 20 |
Core | 265094 | Install, test and configure industrial network systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 16 |
Core | 13235 | Maintain the quality assurance system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
Core | 243070 | Programme, use and maintain an industrial robot system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 10 |
Fundamental | 119472 | Accommodate audience and context needs in oral/signed communication | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119457 | Interpret and use information from texts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119467 | Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119465 | Write/present/sign texts for a range of communicative contexts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 9015 | Apply knowledge of statistics and probability to critically interrogate and effectively communicate findings on life related problems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 6 |
Fundamental | 119462 | Engage in sustained oral/signed communication and evaluate spoken/signed texts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119469 | Read/view, analyse and respond to a variety of texts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
Fundamental | 9016 | Represent analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
Fundamental | 119471 | Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
Fundamental | 7468 | Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business, national and international issues | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 6 |
Fundamental | 119459 | Write/present/sign for a wide range of contexts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
Elective | 116714 | Lead a team, plan, allocate and assess their work | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 4 |
Elective | 9526 | Manage basic business finance | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
Elective | 9530 | Manage work time effectively | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 3 |
Elective | 13254 | Contribute to the implementation and maintenance of business processes | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 10 |
Elective | 259139 | Demonstrate and apply knowledge of basic digital electronic principles | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 10 |
Elective | 13334 | Install, test and configure variable speed control drives | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 10 |
Elective | 13115 | Install, test and maintain an electro-hydraulic system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 20 |
Elective | 13116 | Install, test and maintain an electro-pneumatic system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 20 |
Elective | 13154 | Install, test and maintain three phase AC/DC machines and control gear | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 10 |
Elective | 116059 | Maintain Specialized Sensing Devices | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 15 |
Elective | 13315 | Write simple computer numerical controlled (CNC) programmes and set and operate a CNC machine | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 24 |
LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification. |
NONE |
PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here. |
NONE |
All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |