Aims and Fit of Module

This module aims to provide students with knowledge and techniques for development of mechatronic systems, e.g. robots, automobiles, and all types of commonly used mechatronic equipment used in industry as well as all other sectors of society. Special attention is paid to industrial automated systems, including robotic systems in particular, where mechatronics finds most of its applications. The knowledge delivered to students covers the following aspects with emphasis laid on industrial automated systems: 
(1) Mechatronic systems configurations and key elements, and how to develop such systems.
(2) Mechanical engineering in typical mechatronic systems.
(3) Control and drive of mechatronic systems.
(4) Industrial networking and communications.
(5) Sustainability in mechatronic system development.

After learning this module, students should gain a general picture on configurations of mechatronic systems, especially those for industrial applications, and more importantly, how to development an automated system for given industrial applications. This module indeed gives students a detailed picture on the aim, objective and contents of Mechatronics and Robotic Systems (MRS) programme, which can also provide students with useful hints for their future career in the fields closely related to MRS.

Learning outcomes

A. Design, integrate, and troubleshoot a complete mechatronic subsystem by selecting appropriate mechanical components, sensors, controllers and actuators, and implementing the corresponding control logic to perform a specified task.
B. Develop, debug, and document the control programs for a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) to automate a given industrial process, including the integration of digital and analog I/O.
C. Implement a closed-loop servo control system for precise motion control.
D. Configure industrial network protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, POWERLINK) to establish communication between a PLC, motor drives, and an HMI in a workstation.
E. Analyze the energy consumption, material selection, and end-of-life disposal of a proposed mechatronic design, to justify design and component choices based on their impact on economic, environmental, and social sustainability.

Method of teaching and learning

This module will be delivered by a combination of formal lectures and supervised laboratory sessions. Lectures establish core principles, while using extensive hands-on laboratory sessions (also integrated with tutorials when necessary) to allow students to apply and test these concepts through practical system integration and troubleshooting. The assessments focus on three essential stages of product development: mechanical design, hardware prototyping, and sustainability analysis.