Advanced Mechatronics

Description
Mechatronics, as an engineering discipline, is the synergistic combination of mechanical engineering, electronics, control engineering, and computer science, all integrated through the design process.

This course studies mechatronics at an advanced theoretical and practical level. Balance between theory/analysis and hardware implementation is emphasized; physical understanding is stressed. A case-study, problem-solving approach with hardware demonstrations is used throughout the course.

Topics covered include: mechatronic system design, modeling and analysis of dynamic systems, system identification techniques, control sensors and actuators, analog and digital control electronics, interfacing sensors and actuators to a microcomputer/microcontroller, analog and digital controller design, and real-time programming for control.

Prerequisites
Modeling and Analysis of Dynamic Systems; Feedback Control of Dynamic Systems; and Electronics and Instrumentation

Textbook(s)
Ordering Information

Format
Classes: 14 sessions
Homework: 10
Exam(s): 1

Grading
Homework: 75%
Exam(s): 25%
Class Participation Is encouraged but not graded

Who Should Enroll
This course may be used in your Plan of Study as follows:

Degree Programs
CSCI - elective
CSYS - elective with advisor pre-approval
ELEC - elective with advisor pre-approval
EPOW - elective with advisor pre-approval
ESCI-MM - elective
ESCI-MOT - elective
ESCI-MSE - elective
ITEC - elective with advisor pre-approval
MBA - elective
MEAE-ME - elective with advisor pre-approval
MGMT-MS - elective
QUAL - elective with advisor pre-approval
SERV - elective with advisor pre-approval
TCOM - elective with advisor pre-approval

This course is also open to non-matriculated students who meet the prerequisites.

Computing
Email and World Wide Web access required. Access to a PC running Windows 95/98/NT; minimum 16 MB RAM; minimum 145 MB disk space, 8 bit graphics adapter and display; MS supported graphics accelerator and sound card recommended. Matlab, Simulink and the Control Systems Toolbox software from MathWorks is required.

Matlab and Simulink can be purchased through the Office of Professional and Distance Education (PDE) at an approximate cost of $125. The Control Systems Toolbox can be ordered directly from MathWorks. For more information about Matlab visit their website at http://www.mathworks.com/.

Access to WebCT, Rensselaer's course management tool, is required. Please refer to this page for instructions on how to set up your computer for WebCT.