This document discusses mechatronics and the transition from traditional mechanical systems to mechatronic systems. It explains that mechatronic systems integrate mechanical components with sensors, actuators, and microprocessors. This allows mechatronic systems to be more compact, have simplified and programmable movements, variable speed drives, electronic synchronization, and lighter structures compared to traditional systems. The accuracy of mechatronic systems is determined by feedback rather than mechanical tolerances. The document also describes four approaches to mechatronic design: replacing mechanisms, simplifying mechanisms, enhancing mechanisms with closed-loop control, and synthesizing new mechanisms.

1. Mechatronics
ELS 5304
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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2. Mechanical system and design
• Mechanism, Packaging and Structure hold
together the components of a Mechatronic
System (sensors, actuators, microprocessors
etc.)
• Mechanism, Packaging and Structure are
equally important in the functioning of the
system as they too control the accuracy,
reliability and safety of the system.
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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3. Transition from traditional products and
systems to mechatronic products and systems
Traditional
• Bulky systems
• Complex mechanisms
• Non-adjustable movement
cycle
• Constant speed drives
• Mechanical synchronisation
• Rigid heavy structure
• Accuracy depends upon
tolerance of mechanism
• Manual Controls
Mechatronic
• Compact
• Simplified mechanisms
• Programmable movements
• Variable speed drives
• Electronic Synchronisation
• Lighter structures
• Accuracy decided by
feedback
• Automatic and
Programmable Controls
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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4. The Mechatronic Approach
1. Replacement of Mechanisms
• Wrist watches
• Fly By Wire
2. Simplification of
Mechanisms
• Typewriters
• Large Guns
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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5. The Mechatronic Approach
3. Enhancement of Mechanism
With closed loop control of the mechanical systems
better speed, accuracy and flexibility can be achieved.
E.g. Early robots
4. Synthesis of Mechanisms
Using embedded microprocessor systems synthesis of
different mechanisms and functions can be achieved
E.g. Washing Machine
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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6. Embedded Systems
• Microprocessor based systems designed to
control a range of functions
BUT
Not designed to be programmed by the end
user.
Examples: Washing mashines, DVD players,
Photo-copying machines, camcorders.
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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7. Control
1. Program Control
In mechatronic systems the system functions can be
redefined easily using software. This can be done by
a. the user selecting from a number of predefined and
previously stored programs
b. loading a new program from an external source
e.g. Automated Manufacturing Cell, Automatic Sewing
Machine
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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8. Control
2. Adaptive Control
Local processing power is available due to embedded
μC. This enables variation of the programmed path /
speed / setting according to the local conditions in
order to optimise the behaviour of system.
E.g. Active suspension system, CNC machines
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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9. Control
3. Distributed Systems
The mechatronic devices are arranged so
that they work in parallel, i.e. simultaneously,
they can be distributed over a large area and
be synchronised with the help of μP.
E.g. Active suspensions, Conveyor systems
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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10. Control
3. Distributed Systems
The mechatronic devices are arranged so
that they work in parallel, i.e. simultaneously,
they can be distributed over a large area and
be synchronised with the help of μP.
E.g. Active suspensions, Conveyor systems
Ref: Mechatronics : Bradley, Dawson, Burd,
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