Mechatronics: Electronic Control Systems in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering:

A mechatronic system contains a mechanical part and an electronic part. What devices can you describe that have a mechanical part and an electronic part? How do they work and what do they do?

Mechatronics is the union of mechanics, electronics and computing where we apply electronics and computing to control the motion of mechanical system as required. With mechatronics, we build specialized equipment to be used for various purposes.

With the advancement in microelectronics and sensors technology, mechatronic systems have become more reliable, compact and efficient.

Mechatronics Examples:

Household machines - > Drill Machine, Washing Machine

Computers - > Computer Disc Drive, CNC machines, 3D printer, ATM

Industrial - > Conveyor belts, Industrial Robots

Automobiles - > Electronic braking

Consumer electronics-> vacuum floors

Medical - > Prosthetics, Pace maker

Defense - > Unmanned aerial vehicles

What and How do they work?

Washing Machine:

It is a good example of mechatronic system where the motion of an electrical motor is being used to wash clothes. Inside a washing machine exists; motor, mechanical drum, microprocessor, sensors and electronic IC's.

The microprocessor gets the command from user to do something e. g. wash, dry, increase or decrease timer, adjust temperature etc. The microprocessor gathers data from respective sensors whenever it needs. Microprocessor sends command to motor controller to either increase or decrease speed of the shaft.

Elevator, CNC machines, electronic watches, electronic home appliances, etc.

Explanation:

There are many devices that can be included in a mechatronics system. For instance;

1 - An elevator,

2 - Numerically controlled cutting and milling machines used in the industry, automated robotic systems, etc.

3 - Electronic watches incorporating mechanical parts and electronic circuits.

4 - Electronic consumer appliances, such as washing machines, plain paper copier, printer etc.

The general mechanism behind all these devices is same. The commands are transmitted to the device through electrical systems and the feedback is displayed through the same. While the work is done by the device through mechanical parts and movements. For example, An elevator moves up and down and serves its purpose through a mechanical mechanism of pulleys. But, the commands of where to stop and start are given through electrical system and the movement is controlled through electronics.