Mechatronics (Q1311476)

[The articles of this volume will not be indexed individually.] Mechatronics is a term first used by the Japanese (circa 1983) to describe the integration of mechanical and electrical/electronic disciplines in modern engineering processes. While this concept is not entirely new, and this is evidenced by many products utilising both mechanical and electrical components, it does symbolize a new philosophy of product development. Other definitions emphasize the synergistic property of good mechatronics design: mechatronics is a synergistic combination of precision mechanical engineering, electronic control and systems thinking in the design of products and manufacturing processes. In the past the integration of electronics with mechanical components has often been more by coincidence or desperation than by design. Microprocessor controls have often been merely `added on' to existing electro-mechanical systems and, although beneficial enhancements have sometimes been obtained, the dramatic advantages which can result from a totally integrated design, planned from outset to use the best properties of mechanical, electro-mechanical and microelectronic elements, have been achieved. The new philosophy of product design has implications for the education and training of engineers. The old boundaries around the different technological areas must be broken down and fuzzified and, to a large extent, this has already happened. Certainly, mechanical engineers are now aware of the benefits of using microprocessors in their machines. Electronics engineers are aware of the need to take into account, a priori, the dynamical behavior of the controlled plant. Perhaps of all technologists, it is the computer scientist who has shown the least inclination to move outside his traditional domain -- although this is changing rapidly. This book collects the lectures presented during a course entitled Mechatronics at the International Centre for Mechanical Sciences in Udine, Italy. Each of the lecturer is an acknowledged specialist in a modern high-technology field. The following topics have been covered: Mechatronics product development and design; mechanics, electronics, and the control of robot arms: Intelligent actuation and sensing -- with examples in heavy duty manipulators; mechatronics in NC machines; open, integrated and model-driven product realization; artificial intelligence and neural computing. The authors present a wide range of methods and techniques from this interdisciplinary field and apply them to convincing examples. The book should be of value for both engineers interested in this modern engineering concept as well as for engineering students, especially in mechanical and electrical engineering.