Development of a mechatronics training facility

A modular demonstration rig has been developed to satisfy the 'hands-on' training requirements of a Mechatronics and Robotics degree university course. This training device facilitates the teaching of how to use equipment and techniques from each of the disciplines of mechatronics. It demonstrates the integration of the areas of mechanics, electronics and computing, by using simple examples of technology which are easily understood by novice engineering students. The rig produces a result which would not be possible through the application of any one of the disciplines of mechatronics. This is a simplified way of demonstrating a connected group of flexible manufacturing cells. The rig shows examples of a broad range of automation principles and equipment currently found in Australian industry, from the classical mechanical to current software and optical techniques. The rig utilises this equipment in exactly the same manner as it would be utilised in industry, while satisfying the requirements of minimum cost, availability of components, ease of assembly and provision for future upgrades.