Project Mechatronics Round-Up

Tools to help you with your designs – Oct 2007

Software: Motion Control System Design with Multi-Language Simulation Tools. From Mentor Graphics: http://mentor.com

While various analysis options for motion control systems have been available for many years, only multi-language simulation can completely handle the diverse modeling requirements of motion control systems in a “holistic” manner. This approach allows for rapid development of new models using hardware description languages (HDLs) which go beyond the capabilities of SPICE yet still supports the use of existing SPICE models.

http://www.mentor.com/products/sm/techpubs/mentorpaper_17318.cfm

Evaluation Board: Mechatronics Demonstation board is an easy-to-use mechatronics development and demonstration platform. From Microchip: http://microchip.com

The demonstration kit takes a hands-on approach to learning about mechatronics. Jumper wires are provided in the kit which allow the developer to experiment with connecting the PIC microcontroller to various components on the board. These components include sensors, LEDs, human input devices and motor drivers. The board comes with nine example projects which include firmware, connection diagrams (for the wire jumpers) and schematics.

http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=1406&dDocName=en023837∂=DM163029

White Paper: Enabling innovation through mechatronic product cycle management. From: UGS: http://www.ugs.com

Innovative manufacturers across all industries have increasingly incorporated electronics and software into their mechanical products in order to deliver features that customers want at a competitive price. As competition has intensified and market windows have shortened, mechatronics technologies have become critical success. This white paper details the requirements.

http://www.ugs.com/products/teamcenter/docs/wp_tc_systems_engineering.pdf

Application Note: Integrated design platform for sensorless control of washers From: International Rectifier: http://www.irf.com

The application of direct-drive Permanent Magnet Sychronous Motor (PMSM) washing machines improves system dynamics and reduces overall system cost due to a simpler mechanical structure. Typically, Hall Effect sensors are deployed to provide rotor position information necessary for control of these motors, adding cost and complexity to the motor design.

http://www.irf.com/product-info/fact_sheet/fs8487.pdf

WebCast: Merge ECAD and MCAD Design Data to Build Better Mechatronic Products From Solidworks: http://solidworks.com

More and more products are now integrating electronics into their basic design. Tighter packaging requirements, repackaging, modular design are often required too. This is happening at an increasing rate in electromechanical products, often grouped under the heading of mechatronics. New techniques and products can help designers merge their ECAD design data into their 3D mechanical design EARLY in the design to help streamline the overall process.

http://www.solidworks.com/pages/news/seminars/webcasts/Jan2007_Webcast.html