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Elementary, Mr. Watson: Mechatronics—The Swiss Army Knife of Engineering

Many folks in my age group raised on a farm always carried a pocket knife. My choice was a Swiss Army Knife. It was a versatile, multi-functional pocketknife manufactured by Victorinox and Wenger and is renowned for its compact design. What was nice about the Swiss Army Knife was the array of tools that fold out from its handles. Whatever job you need to accomplish, the Swiss Army knife can handle it.

Mechatronics is the Swiss Army Knife of our industry. Each component of the knife—the blade, scissors, screwdriver, or bottle opener—serves a unique purpose. Yet, collectively, they form an integrated tool capable of tackling a wide range of tasks. Similarly, mechatronics combines mechanical engineering, electronics, control systems, and computer science into a cohesive discipline revolutionizing today's electronic industry.

What is mechatronics? Why is it the new buzzword often heard in the many board rooms and academia? Mechatronics, also known as mechatronic engineering, is a multidisciplinary field that combines mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering with other disciplines to create more efficient products and processes. Mechatronics engineers use these disciplines to design and build computer-controlled "smart" machines that can improve manufacturing operations. Mechatronics underpins the technology behind robotics, autonomous systems, and microprocessor-based technologies.

Mechatronics was trademarked in 1971 by Tetsuro Mori, an engineer at Yaskawa Electric Corporation in Japan. Recently, it's taken on a new meaning in our industry, which is a direct result of several technological advancements, industry demands, and evolving interdisciplinary approaches. The term that initially described the integration of only mechanical engineering and electronics now encompasses a broader and more complex array of technologies and applications, including integrating digital technologies, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT connectivity. Mechatronics promotes a holistic approach to design and development, integrating mechanical, electronic, and software components from the outset. That leads to more cohesive and well-optimized products.

Basic mechatronics can be compared to the essential tools of a Swiss Army Knife that lay the groundwork for more complex functions. These foundational elements are critical for designing, developing, and implementing mechatronic systems in cutting-edge industries. That means this entire industry model will grow exponentially. I see that mechtronics now includes mechanical engineering, electronics, control systems, computer science, and system integration.

Mechanical engineering (knife): The knife blade, which is the fundamental tool of the Swiss Army Knife, represents the mechanical aspects of mechatronics. I believe that mechanical engineering forms the bedrock of mechatronics because it involves designing and constructing physical structures and mechanisms. In an ever-increasing complex electronic industry, this includes the development of casings, moving parts, and structural components for devices such as smartphones, laptops, and wearable technology. The mechanical engineers ensure these components are robust, reliable, and manufacturable, forming the skeleton upon which other systems are built. They are challenged to get more into a smaller package.

Electronics (scissors): The scissors on a Swiss Army Knife symbolize the electronic components of mechatronics. As scissors cut through materials precisely, electronics slice through complex problems, providing the circuitry and power management essential for modern devices. Basic electronics involve understanding and designing circuits, managing power distribution, and integrating sensors and actuators. These skills are crucial for developing consumer electronics, ensuring devices function seamlessly and efficiently.

Control systems (screwdriver): The screwdriver represents control systems, a key component in fine-tuning and adjusting various parameters within mechatronic devices. Control systems manage the behavior of machines and processes, ensuring they operate within desired parameters. In basic mechatronics, this might involve simple feedback loops and PID controllers in applications like motor control in household appliances or temperature regulation in Smart thermostats.

Computer science (bottle opener): The bottle opener signifies computer science, which unlocks the potential of hardware through software development. Basic mechatronics requires programming languages, software development, and algorithm design proficiency. This knowledge is essential for writing the code that controls devices, from simple embedded systems in kitchen gadgets to firmware in consumer electronics.

System integration (additional tools): Additional tools on a Swiss Army Knife represent the integration of these disciplines. Essential system integration combines mechanical, electronic, control, and software elements into functional systems. This integration is evident in products like automated home devices, where sensors, actuators, and controllers work together to provide convenience and efficiency.

If you are not taking advantage of a mechatronic system at your company right now, it may be something you should consider. My Swiss Army Knife was only valuable to me when I pulled it out, selected the tool I needed, and put it to work. Our industry is not slowing down, and for your company to stay on the cutting edge, you need to use the best tools possible. If you have not switched to a mechatronic process, why not?

I can think of several reasons for this. First, mechatronics facilitates seamless mechanical, electronic, and software integration. By consolidating these technologies into a unified platform, companies can develop complex systems that perform diverse functions efficiently. This integration enhances system reliability, reduces development time, and improves product quality.

• Flexibility: One critical advantage of mechatronics is its flexibility in adapting to varying operational requirements and environments. Companies can customize mechatronic systems to meet specific needs, integrate new functionalities seamlessly, and respond quickly to market changes. This adaptability allows for innovation and differentiation in product offerings.
• Automation and efficiency: Mechatronics plays a pivotal role in automation, enabling companies to automate repetitive tasks and optimize production processes. Automated systems powered by mechatronics enhance operational efficiency, reduce labor costs, and minimize errors, increasing productivity and throughput.
• Cost savings: The big reason is that while initial investments in mechatronic technologies may be significant, they often result in long-term cost savings. Mechatronic systems are designed for energy efficiency, reduced maintenance requirements, and extended operational lifespans. These factors contribute to lower operational costs and improved sustainability, aligning with corporate social responsibility goals.

Adopting a mechatronic approach fosters innovation within companies. It encourages interdisciplinary collaboration among mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and software developers to explore new technological frontiers. Mechatronics enables the development of innovative products and solutions that differentiate companies in competitive markets.

The Swiss Army Knife analogy aptly captures the essence of mechatronics in today's electronic industry. Basic mechatronics lays the foundation with essential tools and skills, while advanced mechatronics enhances complexity and innovation with specialized knowledge and integration capabilities. Together, they drive the evolution of the electronic industry, fostering innovation, efficiency, and adaptability. As technology advances, the role of mechatronics as the Swiss Army Knife of engineering will only become more critical, shaping the future of electronic devices and systems.

John Watson is a professor at Palomar College, San Marcos, California.