Mechatronics, Control and Automation

What this unit covers

The resources here sit in the Mechatronics and Robotics strand of Mechanical engineering. They run from the big picture of the field to the maths of control. The mind map called Mechatronics sets out what the field is, the knowledge involved, possible careers, main responsibilities and areas of activity. Other maps look at the history of mechatronics, industrial automation, hard skills in mechatronics engineering, industrial robot history and a robotic deburring pipeline.

The control theory side

Much of the page is about modelling and controlling dynamic systems. The flashcard decks on modelling in the frequency domain and in the time domain, and the one on transfer function models, go together. The deck on block diagrams, state-variable models and simulation methods asks you to complete statements about state-variable equations and transfer functions. The Mech-215 mind map covers the phasor diagram and Laplace transforms. The ME 467 System Dynamic and Automatic Control mind map lists course objectives such as analysing and simulating an existing control system and applying classical controller design methods. A note made from that map sits beside it.

Mechanical modelling

Two decks cover the mechanical groundwork: rigid body mechanical systems, including dry friction and pulley inertia, and spring and damper elements, including springs joined end-to-end and nonlinear springs. The mind map on control of mechanical systems with dry friction picks up the same theme.

A suggested order

1. Start with the Mechatronics mind map for the overview.
2. Move to the control system concept and control engineering maps.
3. Work through the modelling and transfer function flashcards.
4. Try the chapter quiz on hydronic heating, where the controlled variable is usually indoor air temperature and closed-loop control seeks to eliminate error.
5. Use the chapter deck on electrical power in automated systems to check open-loop and closed-loop ideas.

Using maps and quizzes together

Read a map first, then close it and answer from memory. Return to the map for anything you missed. Teachers can pick a map or deck to set alongside their own course. Choose one resource today and see where your gaps are.