Mechatronics system: Definition




The term "Mechatronics" was invented by a Japanese Engineer, named Tetsuro Mori, how was a Sr. Engineer at Yaskawa Electric Corporation in 1969. The word "Mechatronics" was a combination of ‘mecha’ from mechanisms and ‘tronics’ from electronics, however, mechatronics now has a wider meaning. 

There are several definitions of the word "Mechatronics", such as:
  • Definition 1: Mechatronics is a philosophy in engineering technology in which there is a coordinated and concurrently developed, integration of mechanical engineering with electronics and intelligent computer control in the design and manufacture of products and processes. [Ref: Bolton, Chapter 1, Pg. 9]
  • Definition 2: According to Mechatronics Forum, UK “Mechatronics is the synergistic integration of mechanical engineering with electronics and intelligent control algorithm in the design and manufacture of product process".  [Ref: Mahalik, Chapter 1, Pg. 5] 
What is more important, is to understand the meaning of word "synergistic". Synergistic means relating to the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects. For more information on synergistic integration in various domains, click here.
  • Definition 3: The field of mechatronics deals with the synergistic integration of mechanical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering and control engineering in the development of electromechanical products through an integrated design approach. [Ref: Ramachandran, Chapter 1 , Pg. 1]

A typical example of mechatronics systems is Washing machines, digital camera, Antilock brake system (ABS), Automatic teller machine (ATM), Microwave oven, Aircraft flight control system, Video recorder system, CNC machine tools, Robots, Room air conditioner (AC) system, Calculators, Photocopies, Sewing machines.
Digital camera

Robotic arm

CNC machines

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