Mechatronics and industrial automation are two fields that overlap to a certain extent. However, they also have differences. Here is the definition of each, along with how they benefit manufacturing. More information is available at ZhenGongChain.
What is Mechatronics?
Mechatronics is the fusion of mechanical engineering with electronic circuits, control systems, and software engineering. Some also include telecommunications within the scope of mechatronics.
Jim Devaprasad, a professor at Lake Superior State University's College of Engineering Technology, expands the definition of mechatronics by adding the manufacturing element. He also notes that mechatronics was once referred to as "systems engineering."
Although mechatronics began with the study of mechanical and electrical interactions, it has evolved. Mechatronics now involves studying how those electromechanical events affect other devices. Some of these devices relate to industrial automation, such as robots.
Professionals studying mechatronics often build automated systems increasingly used in manufacturing plants. However, mechatronic systems are not necessarily specific to industrial automation. For example, a digital thermostat with feedback sensors and a microprocessor is a mechatronic system. Yet this thermostat may contain no automated components-so digital thermostats aren't solely tied to industrial automation.
During system or product design, mechatronics professionals prioritize systems-based thinking and interdisciplinary problem-solving. Systems-based thinking means understanding how each part connects and impacts the whole from a holistic perspective. The interdisciplinary aspect indicates that mechatronics specialists can expect to collaborate with individuals from diverse fields to achieve optimal outcomes.
Benefits of Mechatronics for Manufacturing
Mechatronic design considers customer or project specifications. It also identifies cross-functional issues that must be addressed early on. Furthermore, mechatronics aims to optimize high functionality and efficiency-two characteristics that drive progress in manufacturing and other industries.
The collaboration between Siemens and Festo Didactic directly addresses the manufacturing skills shortage through mechatronics training. Students will be trained in a simulated smart factory environment, equipping them with the capabilities to pursue advanced manufacturing roles upon certification through the program.
What is Industrial Automation?
Industrial automation focuses on using technology to accomplish tasks with minimal human intervention. A four-tier hierarchy is commonly proposed when discussing this subject.
The bottom tier is the field level, comprised of sensors and actuators. Sensors collect data such as temperature and speed. Conversely, actuators receive electrical or pneumatic signals and convert them into motion.
The second tier is the control level, housing various automation controllers. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), frequently used in industrial settings, are examples of controls found at this level. These controllers enable operators to program machines to perform specific functions and run autonomously.
The third tier is the supervisory level. It includes devices like human-machine interfaces and gadgets that can set production targets or trigger start-up and shutdown commands.
The enterprise level sits at the top of the hierarchy. It manages the entire automation system but focuses more on business aspects like sales and orders rather than the technical operations occurring in the background.
Benefits of Industrial Automation for Manufacturing
Industrial automation machinery often integrates mechanical and electrical components to work in concert. This is where the line between mechatronics and industrial automation can blur. However, as noted, some mechatronic systems lack automation components.
Industrial automation is a key component of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The focus of advancement lies in integrating computers with physical equipment to achieve desired outcomes. Consequently, companies investing in industrial automation typically seek benefits such as increased production and improved scalability.
By minimizing or eliminating human intervention, industrial automation reduces issues related to fatigue or user error. Some systems can respond to changes and self-adjust as needed. Others prevent downtime by alerting operators to maintenance requirements.
As demand for manufacturing facilities grows, industrial automation will become increasingly vital. Moreover, it will continue evolving as technology improves or adapts to better suit manufacturing needs.
Two Concepts with Significant Overlap
As this overview illustrates, the distinction between mechatronics and industrial automation is not always clear-cut. Mechatronics specialists frequently engage in projects related to industrial automation while also handling other initiatives. While mechatronics serves as an umbrella term encompassing multiple disciplines, industrial automation maintains a more focused emphasis. It seeks to enable machines to perform tasks traditionally executed entirely by humans.
Despite differences between these fields, both can positively impact manufacturing. As the industry grows increasingly sophisticated and reliant on specialized machinery, the contributions of mechatronics and industrial automation will remain indispensable for the foreseeable future.