Lab Plan

Mechatronics Laboratory

By Dr. Fred DePiero

Mechatronics is more than just the confluence of ME and EE disciplines. It goes beyond the intersection of these fields by encouraging an integrated approach to the design process. All too often the design process on projects that integrate these two fields has been to do the mechanical design first, then "let the control guys figure out how to make it work..." A Mechatronics-style approach encourages the mechanical, control, and sensing to be considered up front in the design process - and then to be integrated in an coordinated fashion. This approach to design calls for a new kind of engineer.

Mechatronics is the perfect forum for a capstone learning experience. It provides a rich environment to design, implement, test and analyze sensory/motor systems that have computer-based control. The following is a rough sketch of some aspects of a future course in Mechatronics for EE.

Course Structure and Goals

• Capstone course, taken at the senior level. 

• Project oriented.

• Early projects in the course group 2-3 skill areas at a time. Final project includes all skill areas.

• Focus on integrating skills to meet design objectives.

• Emphasis on integrating/applying skills.

• Emphasis on exposure to new design and analysis techniques.

• Emphasis on broadening students' experience.

Technical Skill Areas

• Forward + Inverse Kinematics, Jacobian to describe velocity of mechanisms

• Path Planning + Motion Control

• Sensors 

  • Optical 

  • Sonar

  • Imaging 

  • Encoder / LVDT / Tachometer / Accelerometer

  • Hall Effect

  • Temperature

• Actuators 

  • DC

  • Stepper Motors

• Computer-Based Control

  • Microcontroller Programming

  • Computer Interfacing

  • PID Control Laws and Compensation Methods

• Signal Processing

  • DSP Programming

  • Filtering for Noise Removal from Sensors

  • Signal Detection

  • Modeling System Elements

  • Calibration/Resolution/Accuracy Issues

• Power Electronics for Actuation

  • PWM Drive Signals

  • H-Bridge

  • Power Electronic Devices

• Analog Electronics for Sensors

• Digital Electronics for Computer Interfacing

Bench-top setups are envisioned to support experiments involving the above skill areas. Equipment would support automated data acquisition, and microcontroller interfacing to sensors and actuators. This would provide an environment that allows various components to be assembled into larger integrated systems - including sensors, actuators, and mechanical fixtures.

Development of a new Mechatronics lab is beginning. Lab space has been allocated. The EE and ME Departments will share this facility. The University is providing funding for this lab in the form of Group II Equipment, a total of $100k - $300k anticipated. 

Related Links: EE Courseware Info EE Department Web Page CalPoly Web Page

Related E-Mail: EE Department Chair EE Laboratory Committee Chair