Drones are a great example of mechatronics in practice. They have many interconnected systems that depend on multiple disciplines to communicate and function as designed. In this article, we’ll explain how… Read More
The Bowflex SelectTech 560® (ST560) is a “smart” dumbbell, a piece of exercise equipment with embedded sensors and processing to provide training feedback during your workout. The ST560 has an… Read More
Over the last few years, a lot has been written about the future of computing as centered around “big data” algorithms running on servers in data centers. However, embedded systems… Read More
There are typically a number of considerations when choosing whether you want to use a stock gear or to design a custom gear. Two of the key considerations are cost… Read More
What is a Motion Control System? At the most fundamental level, a motion control system is any system that controls energy flow to generate mechanical motion with some desired properties…. Read More
Mechatronics is not only about the motor, but rather getting the most out of the motors you have. To do that you have to step back and look at the… Read More
What is the correct (or best) motor to use in a motion control application? Given the myriad choices of type, size and performance it should not be surprising that there… Read More
In part two of my three-part mechatronics discussion I provided tips for the design of high volume mechatronic systems. In this final entry of the series, I’ll discuss five additional tips… Read More
As I discussed in part one of my three-part mechatronics discussion, there are many, many types of mechatronics systems in the world. In industry, the largest market segment that would clearly identify… Read More
The word “mechatronics” was first coined in Japan in the late 1960’s to refer to the synergistic blend of mechanics and electronics. The word has evolved to describe products and… Read More
Software: Design Complete
Hardware: Pre-production units for design verification
MFG. Readiness: CM schedule and budget, Unit build tracking
Software: Full feature implementationHardware: Prototype 2 units with production-representative materials and processes
Quality: Build Quality PlanSoftware: Core functionality implementationHardware: Prototype 1 units with rapid prototyped components
Quality: Critical manufacturing process identificationSoftware: Architecture design: block, sequence and state diagramsHardware: Major Component definition & Proof of Concept subsystems build
Quality: Design for Manufacturing tradeoffs evaluation