1.

Introduction to Mechatronics: There are lots of definitions of mechatronics one of these is integration of mechanical, electronic, and control engineering, and information technology to obtain the best solution to a given technological problem, which is the realization of a product .Figure 1.1 shows the main components of a mechatronic system. This paper covers some principles and applications of mechatronic systems. As can be seen, the key element of mechatronics are electronics, computer, sensors and Actuators, and information technology, all integrated in such a way as to produce a real product that is of practical use to people.

Figure 1.1 Components of Mechatronics

A classical mechanical-electronic system is resulted from adding available sensors, actuators, and analog or digital controllers to mechanical components. The limits of this approach were given by the lack of suitable sensors and actuators, the unsatisfactory life time under rough operating conditions (acceleration, temperature, and contamination), the large space requirements, the required cables, and relatively slow data processing.

2. Ways of integration within mechatronic systems

The Integration of Components (hardware integration) results from designing the mechatronic system as an overall system and imbedding the sensors, actuators, and microcomputers into the mechanical process. This spatial integration may be limited to the process and sensor, or to the process and actuator. Microcomputers can be integrated with the actuator, the process or sensor, or can be arranged at several places. Integrated sensors and microcomputers lead to smart sensors, and integrated actuators and microcomputers lead to smart actuators. The Integration of Information Processing (software integration) is mostly based on advanced control functions. Besides a basic feedforward and feedback control, an additional influence may take place through the process knowledge and corresponding online information processing. This means a processing of available signals at higher levels, including the solution of tasks like supervision with fault diagnosis, optimization, and general process management.

3. Mechatronics Applications
Smart consumer products: home security, camera, microwave oven, toaster, dish washer, laundry washer-dryer, climate control units, etc. Medical: implant-devices, assisted surgery, etc. Defense: unmanned air, ground, and underwater vehicles, smart munitions, jet engines, etc. Manufacturing: robotics, machines, processes, etc. Automotive: climate control, antilock brake, active suspension, cruise control, air bags, engine management, safety, etc.

Network-centric, distributed systems: distributed robotics, tele-robotics, intelligent highways,