Mechatronic and intelligent machine design

This paper describes contents and curriculum of a subject teaching intelligent mechanical system design. An engineer graduated from a tertiary educational institution should have adequate knowledge to recognise and analyse the primary needs and solve problems. The goal can be achieved by combining mechanical system design with easy reconfigurable control hierarchies together in one subject. The aimed subject must start from thinking of a customer's requirement to develop what might be the most convenient and economic layout for a machine. Students must acquire knowledge of control systems. Detailed analysis of mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical and electronic logic including input-output parameters are essential at this stage. Strength properties of parts and components of the machine must be verified. For visual recognition all the necessary components and units must be put together in an assembly drawing. Study of aesthetic and ergonomic features to make the machine more attractive and safe should be included. In the competitive market functionality and cost optimisation must be taken into consideration. The final stage in the subject should be the construction of a prototype based on the designs formulated above.