Welcome to the Mechanical Engineering Department
Concentration in Mechantronics
About Mechatronics
Mechatronics is the synergistic combination of mechanical, electrical, and computer technologies in the design of complex products and processes. Recent rapid growth of mechatronics as an area of engineering has given rise to a significant demand for mechatronics engineers. In the Mechanical Engineering Department at Cal Poly, our Mechatronics Concentration is helping meet this need by producing engineering graduates who are capable, well-rounded mechatronics designers.
Mechatronics is a design philosophy, an integrated approach to engineering design. The primary factor distinguishing mechatronics is the simultaneous consideration of the following factors in the design of a product or process:
- Mechanical
- Electrical/Electronic
- Computational
- Sensors/Actuators
- Real-Time Interfacing
Mechatronics is intimately associated with modern product design.
Applications of mechatronics are widespread, including manufacturing automation and intelligent machines. Specific examples include: computer printers, copy machines, the Mars Rover, automatic windows, automotive fuel injectors and ignition control, modern household appliances, and car and home security systems.
Our Mechatronics Laboratory, sponsored by Hewlett-Packard, provides state-of-the-art equipment in support of mechatronics design.