LO1 Explain the design and operational characteristics of a mechatronic system LO2 Produce a mechatronic system design specification for a given application LO3 Examine the operation and function of a mechatronics s

Unit 4006 Mechatronics Assignment Brief

Introduction

Auto-focus cameras, car cruise control and automated airport baggage handling systems are examples of mechatronic systems. Mechatronics is the combination  of mechanical, electrical, and computer/controlled engineering working together  in automated systems and ‘smart’ product design.

Among the topics included in this unit are: consideration of component compatibility, constraints on size and cost, control devices used, British and/or European standards relevant to application, sensor types and interfacing, simulation and modelling software functions, system function and operation, advantages and disadvantages  of software simulation, component data sheets, systems drawings, flowcharts,  wiring and schematic diagrams.

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to learn about the basic mechatronic system components and functions, designing a simple mechatronic system specification for a given application, appropriate simulation and modelling software to examine its operation and function, and solving faults on mechatronic systems using a range of techniques and methods.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this unit students will be able to:

LO1 Explain the design and operational characteristics of a mechatronic system

LO2 Produce a mechatronic system design specification for a given application

LO3 Examine the operation and function of a mechatronics system using simulation and modelling software

LO4 Demonstrate fault finding skills and fault analysis on a mechatronic system.

Essential Content

LO1 Explain the design and operational characteristics of a mechatronic system

Origins and evolution:

• History and early development, evolution
• Industrial and consumer examples of mechatronic systems
• Extent of mechatronic systems use
• Current operational abilities and anticipated improvements.

Systems characteristics:

• Design of systems in an integrated way
• Design systems to optimise performance
• Design systems using emerging technologies, Industry 4.0 and analyse impact on organisations
• Sensor and transducer types used
• Consideration of component compatibility
• Constraints on size and cost
• Control device requirements and examples of applications.

LO2 Produce a mechatronic system design specification for a given application

Systems specifications:

• British and/or European standards relevant to application
• Electrical system circuit diagrams, operation of the various components that make up mechatronic system, understanding technical documents
• Sensor types and interfacing
• Actuator technology availability and selection
• Selection and use of appropriate control software/devices.
• Consideration of the interaction of system variables
• System commissioning parameters.

LO3 Examine the operation and function of a mechatronics system using simulation and modelling software

Operation and functions:

• Simulation and modelling software functions
• System function and operation
• Modes of operation simulation, loading and surges
• Advantages and disadvantage of software simulation.

LO4 Demonstrate fault finding skills and fault analysis on a mechatronic system

Locating and correcting system faults:

• Component data sheets, systems drawings, flowcharts, wiring and schematic diagrams, technical documentation (e.g. manuals), fault reports
• Within the context – effective use of data collection systems (e.g. databases), data management systems, data analytics and dashboards; documentation control processes and procedures (e.g., format, location, access, authorisation)
• Original system correct function and operation

Instrumentation usage and faults:

• multimeter, flowmeter, temperature measurement, pressure meter etc. and the measurement data transmission
• Inspection and testing using methodical fault location techniques and methods, use of control software to aid fault location
• Identification, evaluation and verification of faults and their causes, rectification, final system testing and return to service
• Safety first culture in using equipment and resolving the faults – health and safety policies, procedures and regulations, compliance, risk assessment processes and procedures, risk mitigation.

Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria