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Web Based Control for Mechatronics Laboratory Experiments

Abstract

Mechatronics programs all over the country are gaining popularity and the student base is increasing everyday. This field of engineering brings a multi disciplinary approach to engineering education reflecting the complex nature of common products that we come across in daily life such as cell phones, airbags and myriad of appliances. In other words, mechatronic products are the fusion of mechanical devices, sensors, actuators and information systems. A classical example of a mechatronic product is an integrated robotic system. Development of web based mechatronics laboratory experiments will enhance the learning and training experience of students in understanding the concepts associated with this emerging field of technology. In this paper, a detailed account on the development of a robot and vision system based mechatronics experiments with web based control is presented.

Introduction

There is a growing trend of on-line based technology intensive course and training offerings supported with laboratory experiences 1-5. This trend continues in the field of mechatronics and robotics & automation 6-10. Drexel’s Applied Engineering Technology program deserves a special mention in developing one such laboratory for their robotics & mechatronics course 11. Applied Engineering Technology program offered at the University of ________________is in the process of developing on line courses including mechatronics with web based laboratory support. This Bachelor’s program in applied technology is offered totally on-line for the benefit of students from active duty military establishments and industry. This program has courses including manufacturing, CAD/CAM, robotics and mechatronics. The exercises developed in the web based laboratory will support the above mentioned courses. These laboratory exercises will serve as a means for students to gain understanding in advanced industrial automation concepts. The program is developed with an applied engineering technology focus and has a flexibility of an open laboratory. Robotics and vision system based mechatronics experiment is part of this laboratory. The Web-based system permits robotics and automation systems to communicate and share design information through the web based control 12-13. This provides the students with the freedom of time and space flexibility. Real-time web-controlled applications are enhancing the efficiency and capability of real-world manufacturing operations and medical services. In order to bridge the gap from academics and real life practice, the students work with real world industrial robots and equipment. Table I provides a list of experiments that a student can perform with the robotics and vision system based mechatronics laboratory.

Table I. List of Exercises with the Mechatronics laboratory S.No. Laboratory Exercises 1 Robot programming and application development 2 Robot sensor integration and application 3 Calibrations of vision system 4 Development of automated visual inspection system 5 E-Automatic Assembly and Color sorting using computer vision

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Edinbarough, I., & Martinez, J. (2009, June), Web Based Control For Mechatronics Laboratory Experiments Paper presented at 2009 Annual Conference & Exposition, Austin, Texas. 10.18260/1-2--4852