The introduction of smart materials based on piezo ceramics has presented a challenge for current future generations of engineering technologists. Opportunities for new ingenious products and processes through the application of a mechatronic design philosophy has led to an increased performance expectation. The task of educating engineers is recognized as being crucial to satisfying this requirement. A project-based case study is presented as a means of developing the necessary multidisciplinary skills.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
CoatesF. J., ‘Engineering in the Year 2000’, Mechanical Engineering, October, 77–80 (1990).
2.
BradleyD. A.DawsonD.BurdN. C.LoaderA. J., Mechatronics: Electronics in Products and Processes, Chapman & Hall, London, 1991.
3.
MiuDenny K., Mechatronics: Electro Mechanics and Control Mechanics, Springer, New York, 1992.
4.
RagulskisK.BanseviciusR.BarauskasR.KulvietisG., Vibromotors for Precision Microrobots, Hemisphere Publishing, New York, 1988.
5.
ShellyT., ‘Light matched to fast response servo’, Eureka Transfers Technology, June, 22–23 (1993).
6.
MartenssonN.StahreJ., ‘A modularized approach to CIM education’, Proc. of the Rensselaer's 3rd International Conference on Computer Integrated Manufacturing, IEEE, New York, 20–22 May 1992.
7.
TrabassoL. G.HewitJ. R.SladeA. P., ‘Practical teaching in mechatronics’, International Journal of Mechanical Engineering Education, 20(2), 124–128 (1992).
8.
MilneJ. S.FraserC. J.LoganG. M., ‘Mechatronics in engineering courses’, International Journal of Mechanical Engineering Education, 20(2), 129–136 (1992).