Mechatronics and Functional Design

Question 1

when was mechatronics introduced?

Answer 1

1960s- Japan

Question 2

when was microprocessors introduced and what was their purpose?

Answer 2

1980s-improving performance

Question 3

what is mechatronic designs central focus?

Answer 3

integral
development of systems from
technical components (“Mecha’’),

Question 4

what is the definition of “tronic”

Answer 4

intelligently controlled

Question 5

what are mechanical systems?

Answer 5

physical, mechanical products that use
electronics and software

Question 6

how do mechatronic systems react?

Answer 6

“think” and react intelligently to
stimulus and input from sensors and users.

Question 7

how is a system conducted?

Answer 7

there is an output and input source that goes through the system in the middle

Question 8

Name examples of mechanical systems

Answer 8

Geared systems, chain drives, etc
* Levers, linkages
* Pneumatics
* Hydraulic
* Cams and followers (early control system

Question 9

Examples of electrical systems

Answer 9

Sensors
* Signal Conditioning
* For display
* For feedback
* Display systems

Question 10

Control systems

Answer 10

Getting something to do what you want
* …you can ‘control’ it…
* E.g. temperature control of a room
* Go and stop actions
* Open or closed loop systems
* Feedback control
* any more examples?
* Car headlights, light sensors, speed sensors etc

Question 11

Where is mechatronics used in modern and daily life?

Answer 11

Products:
* Washing machines
* E-bikes
* CD-players
* Photocopiers
* Cars
* UAVs
* Robots

Question 12

what are the challenges of mechatronics?

Answer 12

• Mechatronic products are highly integrated
• Presents a challenge to both:
• Designers
  – expertise required
• Design Process
  – concurrent approach
• Requires use of
  overlapping models:
• To show cross-disciplinary
  features of design
• To share information
  across disciplines
• Requires knowledge of relationships across dimensions