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: |
National Certificate: Mechatronics |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
67609 | National 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 | ||
National Certificate | Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology | Manufacturing and Assembly | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 141 | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 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 |
22771 | National Certificate: Mechatronics | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 141 | 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. 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 National Certificate: Mechatronics Level 3 develops competencies required to install, test, and commission systems. The systems involved are pneumatic, hydraulic and PLC control systems. The primary skills that are recognized by this qualification include the ability to: The Qualification enables the qualifying learner to: These capabilities require an understanding of mechanical, electrical and electronic theory, and circuit diagrams, and ability to machine simple parts using milling machines or lathes. Hand skills play a large role in this qualification. Through this qualification, the learner gains competencies required to work, as a technical assistant in most fields of engineering, in the various sectors of the economy. What learners achieve in this qualification will also serve as a basis for further learning where they will engage further in the installation, maintenance and commissioning of mechatronic systems. Rationale: The manufacturing industry is characterised by technologically sophisticated automation processes using Computerised Integrated Manufacturing systems (CIM's) that integrate the fields of mechanical, electrical, electronic, engineering, 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 second qualification in a series for learners who want to follow a career in Mechatronics. This level of the qualification is about installing, testing and commissioning Mechatronics systems. It is about enabling qualifying learners with the skills to perform basic installation and related functions in the various systems with which they operate. 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 e.g. 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 |
It is assumed 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 could be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence in the prescribed format to be assessed for formal recognition. Access to the qualification: |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
The Qualification consists of Fundamental, Core and Elective Unit Standards. A minimum of 141 credits is required to achieve this Qualification. The credits are allocated as follows:
Fundamental Component: Core Component: Elective Component: |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Demonstrate an understanding of a variety of machining methods and an ability to produce simple components.
2. Demonstrate understanding of and an ability to install, test and commission basic hydraulic and pneumatic systems. 3. Install, test, maintain and programme Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). 4. Install and configure PC hardware and software. 5. Solve familiar problems within a Mechatronics environment. 6. Communicate in the Mechatronics environment. Critical Cross-field Outcomes: This will be achieved when qualifying learners: > Identify key elements to own learning plan. > Present solutions to problems identified. > Testing and maintenance standards are met. > Contribute to team and operational goals. > Adhere to operational procedures. > Support team members in adhering to procedures relating to work roles to be carried out. > Adhere to team and organisational protocols. > Install systems test and commission related work in a compliant manner. > Install PLC's, test and commission related work in a compliant manner. > Install software and hardware related work in a compliant manner. > Conduct tests to systems, software and hardware. > Gather and use information related to own and team's work from a range of sources. > Present information in the prescribed format to role players. > Install systems in a compliant manner. > Provide appropriate solutions to needs identified. > Apply occupational safety rules. |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
1.1. Output and quality requirements are met according to worksite requirements. 1.2. Safe working practices are adhered to during working procedures. 1.3. Machining is discussed according to theoretical and practical principles, and functioning of machinery. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: 2.1. Hydraulic and pneumatic system installation, testing and commissioning meets specifications. 2.2. Pneumatic and Hydraulic systems are discussed according to theoretical and practical principles, and installation requirements. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: 3.1. PLC installation, testing and maintenance meet specifications. 3.2. PLC programming meets specifications. 3.3. PLC's are discussed according to PLC systems, principles and requirements. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: 4.1. Hardware and software interfaces, compatibility of hardware components and system requirements for software are checked according to system requirements. 4.2. System components are installed and hardware is configured according to specifications. 4.3. Software is installed and configured to software manufacturer`s specifications. 4.4. PC hardware and software installation and configuration are discussed according to system requirements. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: 5.1. Appropriate procedures are selected to solve problems in an efficient and effective manner. 5.2. Unfamiliar problems are accurately reported to appropriate personnel. 5.3. Familiar problems in the Mechatronics environment are discussed according to their impact and possible solutions. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: 6.1. Information is gathered from a range of sources and is accurately summarised into a prescribed format. 6.2. Information is clear and accurate and presented in a timely manner in the required format to appropriate parties. 6.3. Relationships with peers and supervisory/management levels are established and functioning. 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 leaner 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 as the assessment process is capable of being applied to RPL, subject to the rules and criteria of the relevant ETQA. |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
Introduction:
Mechatronics is an engineering discipline that combines, in a synergistic way, aspects of electronics, electrical engineering, computers and mechanical engineering. It is the application of complex decision making to the operation of physical systems. 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 (UK): 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: Higher National Certificate (HNC) full time 1 year; part time 2 years or more. Higher National Diploma full time 2 years, part time 4-5 years. Progression: After Higher National Certificate (HNC) further study, one may include Higher National Diploma (HND) Mechatronics, BSc Mechatronics Engineering or a related course at level 1. After the Higher National Diploma (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 (USA): 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 Qualification (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 and 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: Conclusion: The international comparability exercise 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 programmes related to a corporate program, like that of Siemense workplace. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
Articulation options:
The Qualification articulates horizontally to: Vertically option: |
MODERATION OPTIONS |
CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
The options as listed above provide the opportunity to ensure that assessment and moderation can be transparent, affordable, valid reliable and non-discriminatory. For an applicant to register as an assessor or moderator of this Qualification, the applicant needs: |
REREGISTRATION HISTORY |
As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. |
NOTES |
This qualification replaces qualification 22771, "National Certificate: Mechatronics", Level 3, 141 credits. |
UNIT STANDARDS: |
ID | UNIT STANDARD TITLE | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | CREDITS | |
Core | 12477 | Identify engineering materials, their characteristics and applications and common metal tests used in engineering | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 4 |
Core | 258678 | Operate and monitor a milling machine | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 12 |
Core | 13234 | Apply quality procedures | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Core | 253074 | Demonstrate an understanding of basic digital circuits | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
Core | 14913 | Explain the principles of computer networks | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Core | 13134 | Install and program basic programmable logic controllers | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 20 |
Core | 260723 | Install, test and maintain a basic fluid power system | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Core | 13139 | Install, test and maintain a basic pneumatic system | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Core | 13141 | Install, test and maintain single phase AC/DC machines and control gear | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Core | 13138 | Install, use and test hardware and software | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
Core | 13154 | Install, test and maintain three phase AC/DC machines and control gear | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 10 |
Fundamental | 119472 | Accommodate audience and context needs in oral/signed communication | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 9010 | Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
Fundamental | 9013 | Describe, apply, analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 4 |
Fundamental | 119457 | Interpret and use information from texts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 9012 | Investigate life and work related problems using data and probabilities | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119467 | Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 7456 | Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business and national issues | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119465 | Write/present/sign texts for a range of communicative contexts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Elective | 116231 | Operate a cab controlled overhead crane | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 8 |
Elective | 116254 | Operate a mobile crane | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 20 |
Elective | 243272 | Operate a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 10 |
Elective | 116235 | Operate a pendant controlled overhead crane | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 5 |
Elective | 262824 | Operate a Sideboom | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 8 |
Elective | 116255 | Operate a tower crane | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 20 |
Elective | 116253 | Operate a truck mounted loader crane | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 20 |
Elective | 242981 | Operate defined purpose lift trucks | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 4 |
Elective | 242976 | Operate overhead/gantry cranes | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 5 |
Elective | 243021 | Shift loads using lifting equipment | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 4 |
Elective | 12429 | Develop a personal financial plan | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
Elective | 12456 | Explain and use organisational procedures | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
Elective | 244407 | Lift and move a load using mechanical lifting equipment | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 7 |
Elective | 260798 | Operate a cantilever container crane (ship to shore) | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 12 |
Elective | 260777 | Operate a container side loader | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Elective | 260818 | Operate a counter balanced lift truck in excess of 15 tons | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 9 |
Elective | 260763 | Operate a floating crane | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 12 |
Elective | 260760 | Operate a inland container crane (rail mounted) | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 260761 | Operate a reach stacker | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 260765 | Operate a rubber tyred gantry crane | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 12 |
Elective | 260817 | Operate a scotch derrick crane (ship mounted) | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 260764 | Operate a ships crane | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Elective | 260797 | Operate a sideloader lift truck | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Elective | 260757 | Operate a straddle carrier | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 260780 | Operate a sugar cane crane | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Elective | 260781 | Operate a telescopic boom handler | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 260758 | Operate a wall-mounted jib | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 7 |
Elective | 242972 | Operate advanced defined purpose lift trucks | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 7 |
Elective | 242974 | Operate counter-balanced lift truck | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 7 |
Elective | 242982 | Operate heavy crane | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 14 |
Elective | 260762 | Operate rough terrain/earthmoving/agricultural equipment | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 11 |
Elective | 123260 | Operate tailgates and tail-lifts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
Elective | 242978 | Operate truck-mounted cranes | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Elective | 8039 | Operating cranes | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 8038 | Operating lift trucks | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
Elective | 253658 | Perform a lifting task by using a mobile crane | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Elective | 13260 | Perform non-destructive tests on metal parts and components | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
Elective | 12455 | Perform the role of a safety, health and environmental protection representative | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 4 |
Elective | 116720 | Show understanding of diversity in the workplace | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 3 |
Elective | 13274 | Test the physical properties of engineering metals | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 4 |
Elective | 117001 | Use a mobile crane to carry out pile driving | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Elective | 9533 | Use communication skills to handle and resolve conflict in the workplace | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 3 |
Elective | 243273 | Monitor and control the safety and operations of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 8 |
Elective | 116583 | Perform tandem lifting | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 12 |
Elective | 253660 | Supervise advanced mobile crane operations | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 20 |
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. |