Elements and Performance Criteria

Automated systems
Automated systems refer to:
the engineering discipline concerned with the conceptual development, research, design, manufacture and/or implementation and/or installation, commissioning and maintenance of automated processes, systems or services for converting energy into power and motion, materials into product and components into machines and systems for domestic, commercial, industrial, civil, entertainment, medical or military applications
Automated systems may incorporate:
mechanical, electronics, programming, electrical and fluid power elements in a system designed to achieve a desired output in response to a variety of inputs, disturbances and variables
Automated systems engineering techniques
Automated systems engineering techniques includes:
the use of system analysis, mechanical and electro, programming and software skills for design, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting and maintenance of systems, processes and services
Automated systems technique may be enhanced by:
the development of basic capabilities with hand and power tools, experience of processes and materials properties
Automated systems applications
In general, principles and techniques for automated systems will include:
mechanical, structural, hydraulic, pneumatic, fluid pumping, electrical and electronic control principles and techniques
The control systems will typically include:
sensory elements, such as position, level, pressure, temperature, flow rate, pH sensors, computer, PLC or dedicated microprocessor control together with appropriate signal conditioning and actuator interfacing. Emergency stop and failsafe design should be incorporated as required
Communications may be:
hard-wired, telemetric, radio or phone linked
Specific avionic applications include:
automatic flight control systems
full authority digital engine control systems
engine indicating and crew alerting systems
flight management systems
telemetry associated with flight test recording
aircraft electronic instrument display systems
electronic centralised aircraft monitor systems
Sources of information
Sources of information include:
reference texts
relevant standards
manufacturer catalogues and industrial magazines
websites
use of phone, email and fax information gathering
Regulatory requirements
Regulatory requirements may be found in:
Civil Aviation Regulations or Civil Aviation Safety Regulations
Technical Airworthiness Maintenance Manual (AAP 7001.053)
Federal Aviation Regulations (United States)
European Aviation Safety Regulations
Transport Canada CTA Rules

Overview of assessment
A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to apply automated systems principles and techniques in avionic engineering situations. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.
Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor’s reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.
The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.
Method of assessment
This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with applying automated systems principles and techniques in engineering situations or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.
Guidance information for assessment