08-12-2012, 03:18 PM
MECHATRONICS
MECHATRONICS.ppt (Size: 147.5 KB / Downloads: 108)
The standard EEC definition of Mechatronics is:
“The synergistic (Working together; used especially of groups, as subsidiaries of a corporation, cooperating for an enhanced effect) integration of Mechanical Engineering with Electronics and intelligent computer control in the Design and Manufacture of products and processes”
The important concept here is that of “synergy”:
The final product is more than just the sum of its parts
It has new level of performance
It has dramatic improvement
It can operate in ways which would have been impossible to envisage hitherto.
Mechatronic product design team organization models
Specialists cooperating through a “Mechatronic Facilitator, who has generalist knowledge of all involved disciplines
The facilitator will often be the project leader.
He will act as an interpreter between the specialists and ensure the best possible synergy.
This approach is favoured by the Finnish Federation of Metal and Engineering Industries.
Summary
Successful Mechatronics design can lead, as the Japanese have shown, to products which are extremely attractive to the customer
Conversely, products designed in more traditional manner will appear old fashioned, will have limited capabilities and will lack customer appeal.
Successful mechatronics design demands a team approach with a strong interpersonal communications element.