OVERVIEW

Mechatronics has been defined in many different ways over the years. Definitions include *“incorporating electronics more and more into mechanisms,” *“the integration of mechanical engineering with electronics and intelligent computer control in the design,” and *“the application of complex decision making to the operation of physical systems.” In essence, mechatronics is adding intelligence to a mechanical design or replacing mechanical designs with an intelligent electronic solution. As technology advances, designs that were once purely mechanical are now best done with electronics or a combination of both. A good example of mechatronics that you are probably familiar with is your thermostat at home. Mechanical thermostats typically had 2 to 3 degrees of error and could not be programmed for different temperatures throughout the day. The only way to adjust the temperature setting of a mechanical thermostat is to walk over to the thermostat and turn the dial. Modern thermostats are digital. These thermostats are more accurate and are typically programmable, allowing you to save energy when you are away from home. Although digital thermostats are usually more expensive than the mechanical thermostats of old, a digital thermostat will pay for itself very quickly in the energy cost it saves you. In addition, digital thermostats have push button controls and a digital readout that consumers like. So in the case of the household thermostat, converting the design to a mechatronic solution has made thermostats more accurate, easier to use, and they save you money.

Mechanical Thermostat	Electronic Thermostat

MECHATRONICS AS A SYSTEM

A mechatronics design is a control system. One or more inputs are fed to a microcontroller. These inputs may have to undergo some signal conditioning before being read by the microcontroller. The microcontroller then implements a control algorithm that interprets the various inputs into the appropriate output or outputs. Again, signal conditioning may be necessary on the output side of the system before driving an actuator or display. In a closed loop system, feedback is received so that the microcontroller is able to monitor and adjust the output as necessary. Providing power to the microcontroller is the last piece of the mechatronic system. In summary, the components of a mechatronic system are input, output, a control algorithm, signal conditioning (if necessary), and power. The Mechatronics Design Center Home lists these components and provides links to different applications under each component.

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