Mechatronics Engineers
Have you ever seen, in some American movie, that mechanical figure called a "robot" that talks and moves just like a human? Have you ever wondered what that robot actually is and how it works? The word "robot" doesn't just refer to that human- or animal-like machine that might show up serving customers in hotels or restaurants - it applies to any machine that's remotely controlled or pre-programmed using computer technology to carry out specific tasks. So there are many different kinds of robots, like self-driving cars, drones, and many other machines used in the military, in factories, and in medical fields. Do you know who the experts are that build and develop these complex machines and solve any problems related to them? They're mechatronics engineers - engineers who have skills across a range of sciences related to mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer engineering. That's why they can work in various fields related to building and developing machines, sensors, and control systems.
Meet the Writer: Waleed Abo Omiraa
What You'll Actually Do
The core tasks and responsibilities that fill a typical day.
- Publish engineering reports documenting design details or qualification test results.
- Provide consultation or training on topics such as mechatronics or automated control.
- Oversee the work of contractors in accordance with project requirements.
- Create mechanical design documents for parts, assemblies, or finished products.
- Maintain technical project files.
- Analyze existing development or manufacturing procedures and suggest improvements.
- Implement or test design solutions.
- Research, select, or apply sensors, communication technologies, or control devices for motion control, position sensing, pressure sensing, or electronic communication.
- Design engineering systems for the automation of industrial tasks.
- Upgrade the design of existing devices by adding mechatronic elements.
- Design advanced precision equipment for accurate or controlled applications.
- Apply mechatronic or automated solutions to the transfer of materials, components, or finished goods.
- Identify materials appropriate for mechatronic system designs.
- Create mechanical models to simulate mechatronic design concepts.
- Determine the feasibility, costs, or performance benefits of new mechatronic equipment.