Multi-tiered control for undergraduate mechatronics

As mechatronics has gained Popularity, the use of more sophisticated control in the design or computer controlled systems has also increased. It is reasonable to teach mechatronics using a gradually increasing complexity in control approach, beginning with discrete and combinational logic and progressing to error feedback control. This work presents an overview of the controls taught in the mechatronics course at Iowa State University and focuses on the introduction of control concepts appropriate for undergraduate mechanical engineers. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.