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Session 2632

Mechatronics Education at Kettering University: Development of Learning-Specific Hardware and Software Jeffrey B. Hargrove, Theodore J. Stokes Kettering University / Toshiba America Electronics Corporation

Abstract

A series of learning-specific electronic circuit boards and associated software has been developed to support mechatronics education in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Kettering University. The boards are designed to interface to the Toshiba TLCS-900H Microprocessor Trainer and Evaluation Board. The purpose of these boards is to provide mechanical engineering students of mechatronics with robust hardware that readily permits interfacing of sensors and actuators to microcontrollers used in mechatronic applications. Further, the boards feature signal conditioning circuits for use in conjunction with sensors, and driver circuits for operating high-current actuating devices. Supporting software has been written to permit ready use of the features of the hardware with only a functional knowledge of electronics, thus helping mechanical engineering students realize the full potential of mechatronics applications in an introductory course. Additionally, a stand-alone microprocessor board with flash memory has been designed and fabricated to permit students move out of the development laboratory and readily embed the electronics portion of a mechatronics device into their projects.

I. Introduction

Mechatronic devices and products are characterized by the integration of sensors, actuators and electronic control technologies in mechanical systems. The result is the potential for enhanced functionality and a degree of smartness and adaptability in the mechatronic system. The underlying philosophy of mechatronics is to incorporate the aforementioned elements at the onset of design, envisioning optimal functionality of the device in its earliest stages of development.

A unique program in mechatronics education at the undergraduate level has recently been implemented for mechanical engineering students at Kettering University1,2. The need to do so has been clearly dictated by an emphasis on integration at the undergraduate engineering level3, as well as the simple fact that consumer and industrial markets demand it. Indeed, the need to

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Stokes, T. J., & Hargrove, J. B. (2000, June), Mechatronics Education At Kettering University: Development Of Learning Specific Hardware And Software Paper presented at 2000 Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri. 10.18260/1-2--8560