Mechatronics

Because industrial applications are becoming more and more complex, today's technicians need skills that cross a variety of disciplines. Mechatronics is a new, interdisciplinary field involving control systems, electronic systems, computers, and mechanical systems that integrates product design and automates manufacturing processes.

Mechatronics combines a host of integrated skills that can be applied in a variety of job contexts. Skills found under the mechatronics technology umbrella include practical knowledge in the integration of electrical systems, fluid power, electronics, computer controls, PLCs, instrumentation, robotics, and information technology. Topics taught in the Mechatronics area include:

• Mechanical and Electrical Drives
• Hydraulics and Pneumatics
• PLCs and Electronics
• Motor Controls
• Lubrication
• Introduction to Robotics
• Power Transmission Systems

Successful completion of many courses in the Mechatronics area may allow a student to exempt some courses in the two-year Mechatronics Associate of Science degree.