ABSTRACT
This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part explores the scope of mechatronic systems is exceedingly wide and often hierarchical, with the essential sensor/microcontroller/actuator relationship appearing at several levels. It illustrates the three broad areas or categories into which most mechatronic applications would be found to fit. The part explores the Canon EOS camera is a more complex system containing several mechatronic control loops within a single enclosure. The necessity of minimizing weight and bulk has driven the company to some novel solutions, of which the leading example is the ultrasonic motor used in focusing. It explains the principal hardware elements visible in such a system are machining centres, robots for parts handling or tool changing, automatic guided vehicles, conveyors and automated inspection stations employing coordinate measuring machines.
