Mechatronics (MEB_411)

Assignment No: 01

Very Short Questions

Q1. De ine mechatronics?

Ans. Mechatronics, also called mechatronics engineering, is an interdisciplinary branch of engineering
that focuses on the integration of mechanical, electronic, and electrical engineering systems.
 It also includes a combination of robotics, electronics, computer science, telecommunications,
systems, control, and product engineering.
 It is the extension and the completion of mechanical systems with sensors and
microcomputers, which is the most important aspect.

Q2. What is meant by system in mechatronics?

Ans. In mechatronics, a system refers to an integrated setup that combines mechanical, electrical,
electronic, and computer engineering to create ef icient and reliable solutions. These systems often
include components like sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, and software to control and automate
processes.
 “Physically, a mechatronic system is composed of four prime components. They are sensors,
actuators, controllers, and mechanical components.”
 For example, a modern washing machine is a mechatronic system. It uses sensors to detect
water levels, temperature, and load weight, and actuators to control the drum’s movement and
water low, all managed by a microcontroller.

Q3. What is transducer?

Ans. A transducer is a device that converts energy from one form to another. Typically, it converts a
physical quantity (like temperature, pressure, or sound) into an electrical signal, or vice versa.
For example:
 Microphones convert sound waves into electrical signals.
 Thermocouples convert temperature differences into electrical voltage.
 Loudspeakers convert electrical signals into sound waves.
Transducers are essential in various applications, including sensing, measurement, and control
systems.

Q4. Define actuators and its types?

Ans. An actuator is a device that converts energy into motion.
 It receives a control signal and uses a source of energy to create physical movement, enabling
machines and systems to perform tasks.
Types: 1. Mechanical actuator 2. Electrical actuator
3. Hydraulic actuator 4. Pneumatic actuator 5. Magnetic actuator

Q5. What do you mean by control system in mechatronics?

Ans. In mechatronics, a control system is a crucial component that manages and regulates the
behaviour of other components within the system to achieve desired performance.
 It involves the use of sensors, controllers, and actuators to monitor and control the operation of
mechanical and electronic systems.
  Key elements in a control system of mechatronics are:
1. Sensors 2. Controllers and 3. Actuators

 Types of control system

1. Open loop control system 2. Close loop control system

Q6. Write the various applications of mechatronics?

Ans. Application of Mechatronics:
 Electronic home appliances
 Electronic entertainment products
 Engine systems (cars)
 Large scale application
 Automotive mechanics
 VCRs and CD players
 Document scanner.

Q7. What are the four prime components of mechatronics?

Ans. Physically, a mechatronic system is composed of four prime components.
 They are 1. sensors 2. actuators 3. controllers and 4. mechanical components.

Q8. What is digital data acquisition system?

Ans. A digital data acquisition system (DAQ) is a setup used to measure and collect data from various
sensors or transducers, converting physical or electrical signals into digital data for analysis and
processing.
 Key Components of a Digital Data Acquisition System:
1. Sensors/Transducers 2. Signal Conditioning 3. Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)
4. DAQ Hardware 5. Computer and Software

Q9. What is logic gate and why it is used in mechatronics system?

Ans. Logic gates are fundamental building blocks of digital circuits.
 They perform basic logical functions that are essential for digital systems.
 Each logic gate takes one or more binary inputs and produces a single binary output based on a
speci ic logical operation.
Why Logic Gates are Used in Mechatronics:
1. Decision making 2. Control systems 3. Digital Signal Processing
4. Automation 5. Safety and Reliability
Types of Logic Gates:
1. AND 2. OR 3. NAND 4.NOR 5. XOR 6. XNOR 7. NOT

Q10. Write the application of transistor?

Ans. Transistors are versatile components used in a wide range of applications due to their ability to
amplify and switch electronic signals.
 Transistors are used as ampli iers in audio and radio frequency devices to boost signals.
 They act as switches in digital circuits, forming the basis of microprocessors and memory
devices.
 Additionally, transistors are essential in voltage regulation, ensuring stable power supply in
electronic systems.
  They also play a crucial role in signal modulation for communication systems.

Long Answer Questions

Q1. Explain brie ly the scope of mechatronics in industrial sector?

Ans. Scope of Mechatronics in Industrial Sector:
 Better design of products.
 Better process planning.
 Reliable and quality-oriented manufacturing.
 Intelligent process control.
Better Product Design: Mechatronics integrates advanced technologies to create more ef icient,
reliable, and innovative products.
Improved Process Planning: It enhances the planning and execution of manufacturing processes,
leading to increased productivity and reduced waste.
Reliable and Quality-Oriented Manufacturing: Mechatronics ensures high precision and
consistency in manufacturing, resulting in superior product quality.
Intelligent Process Control: It enables smart automation and control systems that adapt to changing
conditions, improving overall ef iciency and safety.

Q2. Write the advantages and disadvantages of mechatronics?

Ans. Advantages of Mechatronics:
 High level of integration.
 Increased functionality and better design.
 More use of electronics and software instead of mechanical function.
 Assumes responsibility for process and operation with little interference of operators.
 Uses arti icial intelligence and intelligent process control.
 High reliability and safety.
 Improved and less expensive controls.
Disadvantages of Mechatronics:
 The initial cost is very high.
 The complicated design and system.
 The repair and maintenance is complex.
 Its replacement is so dif icult, that it is dif icult to change the old system to the new system.

Q3. Explain brie ly the various components of mechatronics system?

Ans. A mechatronic system is composed of four prime components. They are sensors, actuators,
controllers, and mechanical components
1. Sensors:
o Function: Detect physical quantities like temperature, pressure, and position.
o Examples: Thermocouples, accelerometers, proximity sensors.
2. Actuators:
o Function: Convert electrical signals into physical movement.
o Examples: Motors, solenoids, hydraulic and pneumatic actuators.
3. Signal Conditioning:
o Function: Modify sensor signals to be suitable for processing.
o Examples: Ampli iers, ilters, Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADC).
 4. Controllers:
o Function: Process input signals and generate control signals.
o Examples: Microcontrollers, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Digital Signal
Processors (DSP).
5. Software and Data Acquisition:
o Function: Collect, analyse, and control data from the system.
o Examples: Data loggers, software like LabVIEW and MATLAB.
6. Mechanical Components:
o Function: Provide the physical structure and movement.
o Examples: Gears, bearings, linkages

Q4. Distinguish between traditional design approach and Mechatronics approach?

Ans.
Aspect Traditional Design Approach Mechatronics Approach

Disciplinary Individual disciplines (mechanical, Integrates multiple disciplines (mechanical,

Focus electrical, software) electrical, software)

Linear and sequential

Iterative and concurrent (parallel
Design Process (conceptualization, design,
development of all components)
analysis, testing)

Integration occurs after

Integration is central, with emphasis on
Integration components are designed
seamless interaction among components
separately

Complex systems broken down

System Complex systems approached as a uni ied
into simpler, discipline-speci ic
Complexity whole, optimizing interactions among all parts
parts

Component Limited focus on how different High focus on how mechanical, electrical, and
Interaction components interact software components interact

Components developed
Development Components developed in parallel,
independently, with integration
Approach considering interactions throughout
challenges later

Issues resolved after individual

Problem- Problems addressed during design, ensuring
components are tested and
Solving compatibility and ef iciency from the start
integrated

Optimization of the overall system, balancing

Optimization typically within
Optimization mechanical, electrical, and software
individual disciplines
performance
Aspect Traditional Design Approach Mechatronics Approach

Designing a mechanical system Designing an automated robot with

Example with separate control and software concurrent development of mechanical parts,
teams sensors, control algorithms, and software

Q5. Draw and explain the signal conditioning low diagram?

Ans.
Signals and conditioning:
 The mechatronic systems deal with two types of signals and conditioning such as — input and
output.
 The input devices receive input signals from the mechatronic systems via interfacing devices
and sensors.
 Then it is sent to the control circuits for conditioning or processing.
 The various input signal conditioning devices used in the mechatronic system are discrete
circuits, ampli iers, Analog-to-Digital (A/D) converters, Digital-to-Digital (DZD) convertors.
 The output signals from the system are sent to output/display devices through interfacing
devices. The various output signal conditioning devices used in the mechatronic system are
Digital-to-Analog (D/A) converters, Display Decoders (DD) converters, ampli iers, power
transistors, and power op-amps.

Q6. What is AND gate and draw its truth table with four conditions?
Ans. An AND gate is a fundamental digital logic gate that performs a logical conjunction on its inputs.
 It outputs a true (1) signal only when all its inputs are true (1). If any input is false (0), the
output will be false (0).
 Here’s the truth table for a 2-input AND gate, which covers all four possible input conditions:
This table shows that the output is 1 only when both inputs A and B are 1. In all other cases, the output
is 0.
Q7. Sketch the basic architecture of a PLC and explain the function of each element?

Ans. Basic Elements of a PLC and Their Functions:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU):

o Function: The CPU is the brain of the PLC. It executes the control program stored in its
memory, processes input signals, and sends appropriate output signals. It also manages
communication with other devices and performs diagnostics.
2. Memory:
o Function: Stores the control program, data, and the status of I/O devices. It includes
both volatile memory (RAM) for temporary data storage and non-volatile memory
(ROM/EEPROM) for permanent storage of the control program.
3. Power Supply:
o Function: Converts the incoming AC power to the DC power required by the CPU and
other components of the PLC. It ensures that the PLC operates reliably.
 4. Input/Output (I/O) Modules:
o Function: Interface the PLC with external devices. Input modules receive signals from
sensors and switches, converting them into signals that the CPU can process. Output
modules convert signals from the CPU into actions, such as turning on motors or lights.
5. Programming Device:
o Function: Used to create, edit, and load the control program into the PLC. It can be a
computer or a dedicated handheld device. The programming device communicates with
the CPU to transfer the program and monitor its execution.
6. Communication Interface:
o Function: Allows the PLC to communicate with other PLCs, computers, and network
devices. It supports various communication protocols to enable data exchange and
integration into larger control systems.

Q8. Summarize the importance of mechatronics in automation?

Ans. Importance of mechatronics in automation
 Mechatronics-based automated systems such as automatic inspection and quality assurance,
automatic packaging, record making, and automatic dispatch help to expedite the entire
manufacturing operation.
 These systems certainly ensure a supply of better quality, well-packed, and reliable products in
the market.
 Mechatronics and Automation is an integrative branch of engineering that incorporates
learning principles from Mechanical, Electrical, Control, Robotics, Electronic, Computer,
Telecommunication, Systems, and Product Engineering.

 Mechatronics plays a pivotal role in the ield of automation by integrating mechanical,

electrical, and software components to create sophisticated and intelligent systems. Here are
some key points highlighting its importance:
1. Enhanced Ef iciency: Mechatronics enables the design and implementation of automated
systems that signi icantly improve ef iciency in manufacturing and production processes. This
leads to higher productivity and reduced operational costs1.
2. Precision and Accuracy: By combining sensors, actuators, and control systems, mechatronics
ensures that automated systems perform tasks with high precision and accuracy, minimizing
human errors.
3. Flexibility and Adaptability: Mechatronic systems can be easily reprogrammed and
recon igured to adapt to different tasks and processes, making them highly versatile in various
industrial applications.
4. Innovation and Smart Systems: Mechatronics drives innovation by enabling the development
of smart systems and advanced technologies such as robotics, autonomous vehicles, and smart
home devices.
 5. Improved Quality Control: Automated mechatronic systems provide consistent and reliable
performance, leading to better quality control and higher standards in production.
6. Safety and Reliability: Mechatronics enhances the safety and reliability of automated systems
by incorporating advanced diagnostics and monitoring capabilities.

Q9. Explain and draw the circuit diagram of BJT?

Ans.

 A Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT) is a three-terminal semiconductor device used for

ampli ication and switching.
 It consists of three regions: the Emitter, the Base, and the Collector.
 There are two types of BJTs: NPN and PNP.
 Key Elements and Their Functions:
1. Emitter (E):
o Function: The emitter is heavily doped to inject a large number of charge carriers
(electrons in NPN) into the base. It is the terminal through which the majority of the
current leaves the transistor.
2. Base (B):
o Function: The base is lightly doped and very thin compared to the emitter and collector.
It controls the number of charge carriers that pass from the emitter to the collector. A
small current entering the base controls a larger current lowing from the collector to the
emitter.
3. Collector ©:
o Function: The collector is moderately doped and larger in size to collect the charge
carriers from the emitter. It is the terminal through which the majority of the current
enters the transistor.

Q10. What is OR gate and draw its truth table with four conditions?
Ans.
An OR gate is a basic digital logic
gate that implements logical disjunction.
It outputs a true (1) signal if at least one
of its inputs is true (1). If all inputs are
false (0), the output will be false (0).