Mechatronics for Non-Electrical Engineers

Mechatronics, or Systems Control, is a very valuable topic for students planning on proceeding into manufacturing, processing, or machine design. The use of mechatronics in industry involves the combination of mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical devices working together to control a system, i.e. automation. Although some educational institutions do offer mechatronics as part of the curriculum, most often it is a course for electrical engineering majors. Since the use of automation involves other devices than electrical components, we developed a course for the Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) students. These students have previous courses in machine design, production design, fluids (Pneumatics/hydraulics), and basic electrical circuits. This paper discusses the issues and methods of creating the course for non-electrical engineering students, having limited or basic electrical knowledge, which would be beneficial for both students and industry.