Mechatronic Design – Historical Background and Challenges for the Future
Year: 2009
Editor: Norell Bergendahl, M.; Grimheden, M.; Leifer, L.; Skogstad, P.; Lindemann, U.
Author: Moehringer, Stefan
Series: ICED
Section: Product and Systems Design
Page(s): 333-344
Abstract
The cross-linking of mechanical components by means of electronics and information technology goes unstoppably forward. New functions, more safety and comfort - mechatronics opens success potentials. The complexity of mechatronic systems grows, however, in the same breath, interactions get more multilayered and the shorter development times increase the development risk. This paper focuses on mechatronic design: it starts with an overview on the historical background of mechatronics. The evolution of mechatronic shows the enlargement in disciplines (heterogeneity) and the increase in complexity. But the methodology is still based very much on mechanically dominated products. The challenge for the future is to support the designer with new methodologies which are able to handle the increasing complexity and incorporate the design requirements of smart mechatronic systems. Examples of new functions and products are illustrated.
Keywords: Mechatronics, Design Theory and Research Methodology, Strategy, Complexity