Rationale
This unit will introduce learners to mechatronic systems, explain their purpose and application cases, keeping a balance between mechanical and software subsystems, with the aim of presenting design principles based on VDI2206 instructions. Toward this end mechatronic system requirements are provided, illustrated with use cases and specifications, as well as hardware design of the system starting from use-cases analysis. Learners will also be taught about object oriented software design based on use-cases, selection of components, proof of concept importance in the design process and the integration of R&D into product design. Learners will be taught about the fundamentals of mechatronic systems and how to design those systems using knowledge of mechanical, electrical engineering and information technology, for example how to specify the adequate standard mechanical components for support and housing. In addition, learners will be shown how to apply optimal and/or modern materials for mechatronic systems. In this unit, they will also learn about the basics of field-programmable gate arrays, field-programmable interconnect components and field-programmable analogue arrays. Finally, this unit deals with the testing and integration of subsystems during the development process, project documentation guidelines and software bundles for design and documentation.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this study unit, the learner will be able to:
Explain the fundamentals of a mechatronic system;
Implement the design principles of the VDI2206;
Specify the optimal materials for mechatronic systems;
Specify the adequate standard mechanical components for support and housing;
Explain the basics of gearboxes and linkages for power transmission;
Discuss the optimal wiring, cabling and routing processes;
Interpret the basics of field-programmable gate arrays, field-programmable interconnect components and field-programmable analogue arrays;
Recognise and evaluate the most important steps in the testing process.
Academic Calendar
https://moodle.mcast.edu.mt/mod/resource/view.php?id=75064
Unit Lecturer
Ing. Clive Seguna
