Preparing the leaders for mechatronics education

Mechatronics is the synergetic combination of precision mechanical engineering, electronic control and systems thinking in the design of products and processes. There is a need to develop interdisciplinary programs in mechatronics that better prepare our graduates to design, build, and operate the products and systems of today and tomorrow. To address this need, the National Science Foundation funded a project entitled “Preparing the Leaders for Mechatronics Education” undertaken by Cal Poly in 1995-1996. The activities that took place during this two-year program is outlined. Several courses and course modules have already been developed and implemented by the participants of this program for their own universities. Some of their pioneering work in this field is also summarized