Mechatronics: Challenges and opportunities
Case Studies
Professor Mohammad_ Ameen Jarrah
Mechatronics Graduate program Director
Sharjah, UAE
Abstract:
Since Mechatronics was proposed in 1969, the mechatronics has been developed in many application fields. Mechatronics is defined as the synergetic integration of Mechanical Engineering and Electronics with computational power. It includes the System design, system integration, power electronics and motion control, intelligent control, robotics, vibration and noise control, all vehicle applications, manufacturing application, and MEMS. Application of mechatronics design practice in aerospace was a standard practice since the term mechatronics was coined in 1969. Advances in key enabling technologies made the highlighted mechatronics design principles and practice.
Due to the microprocessor, we can make the system function more programmable and more flexible, so that we can use the machine without the knowledge of the system, which is the Intelligent Mechatronics. Computational power is becoming a key element in engineering product with simplest functions. Every product uses the microcontroller in their machine even from the washing machine to distributed control of the complex plant system. Intelligent Mechatronics will continuously be developed in today's world still now.
Several new technologies emerged which allow designers to revolutionize their approach. Some ideas were impossible to implement a decade ago, but with the advent of these technologies these ideas are revised and mechatronics design methods are considered. The most important of all is the development of high-speed mini-computers that could be fitted inside a small volume to perform real time tasks of digital control and communication. This in turn reduced the cost of using analogue control hardware and revolutionizes the design process.
MEMS revolutionized sensors and made it possible for the inclusion of sensor fusion in product design. For example a medium range IR sensor can detect a human body within 50 m and a light truck within 250 m. As the micromachine technology, MEMS technology and Microsystem Technology developed, the micro devices are available to our daily life such as micro sensors installed in the automobiles and the ink jet printer. Those devices give us the light weight and advance control characteristics.
Case studies of mechatronics systems focusing on challenges and opportunities will be discussed. MS degree in Mechatronics of Engineering at AUS will be briefed.