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Mechatronics Engineering

Mechatronics also called mechatronics engineering is an interdisciplinary branch of engineering that focuses on the integration of mechanical, electronic and electrical engineering systems and also includes a combination of robotics, electronics, computer science, telecommunications systems, control and product engineering.

2021-2022 MCT Newsletter PDF

In fact, the term mechatronics is a fusion of mechanical and electronics engineering. That tells you that this kind of technology entails integration of both mechanical and electronics engineering concepts into a compact system.

Demand for Mechatronics Engineers is expected to go up, with an expected 19,920 new jobs filled by 2029. This represents an annual increase of 1.45 percent over the next few years.

There are currently an estimated 132,500 mechatronics engineers in the United States. The mechatronics engineer job market is expected to grow by 6.4% between 2016 and 2026.

Being relatively new as compared to the other fields of engineering, jobs in mechatronics are expected to grow. You will also find ample opportunities for internships with corporates, industry and government organisations. This career offers high-paying jobs and good starting salaries.

Advantages of Mechatronics course

  • It is relatively new and less saturated. 
  • Numerous areas of applications.
  • Versatility. 
  • Good job scope abroad.

Here are nine jobs you can easily opt for if you have a mechatronics degree

  • Mechatronics technician
  • Robotics engineer
  • Automation engineer
  • Instrumentation engineer
  • Software engineer
  • Electronics engineer
  • Mechanical engineer
  • Quality assurance engineer

Applications Of Mechatronics

You might be wondering about how exactly mechatronics is applied in advanced manufacturing. Here are some good examples:

  • Production line automation: A manufacturing setting is designed as a chain process whereby one stage leads to the next. Most such systems use belts to move products and materials during the process. Mechatronics makes it possible to automate the process by incorporating devices like barcode readers, imaging and sound processors along the line. For example, a packaged product can have its manufacture and expiry dates stamped in and recorded while on the belt.
  • Measuring devices: A manufacturing process is only good if the end products come out in the right shapes, sizes, weight, and quality. In that case, installing intelligent sensors, testing and calibration systems at the required points goes a long way in ensuring that. All this falls within the realm of mechatronics.
  • Control systems: In any effective manufacturing line, there must be measures put in place to ensure that the installation operates at its optimum level. That makes dealing with factors like pressure and temperature a priority. Thanks to mechatronics, this can be done very easily through sensors and response mechanisms that work to monitor and maintain the desired operating conditions. For example, a sensor can trigger the turn on off the cooling system when the temperature builds to a certain degree.