Elements and Performance Criteria

RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Automated systems
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. The principles and techniques underpinning mechatronics are largely common with those underpinning automated systems. Mechatronics is usually confined to automation associated with a product.
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, flowrate, 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.
The principles and techniques for automated systems have much in common with those for mechatronics. Where mechatronics focuses on a product, automated systems focuses on processes, systems and services automation
Sources of information
Includes reference texts, manufacturer's catalogues and industrial magazines, websites, use of phone, email and fax information gathering.

EVIDENCE GUIDE
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment
A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to apply automated systems principles and techniques in 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.
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.
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.
Method of assessment
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. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.
Guidance information for assessment