Systems design using mechatronics components

Yaskawa predicted the trend in machinery technology where mechanics merge with electronics as early as 1972 when the term `mechatronics´ was introduced as the trademark of the company. Today mechatronics is evolving into mechatronics systems through the development and addition of systems technology. Yaskawa dates back to 1915 where 3-phase induction motors were developed for the Japanese mining industry. Two examples are used to illustrate the commercially successful application of mechatronics: a typical labelling machine requiring very fast yet precise point to point positioning of a labelling head relative to a continuously moving feed of product; and NC controllers and drive systems