The integration of electronic engineering, electrical
engineering, computer technology, and control engineering with mechanical
engineering is increasingly forming a crucial part in the design, manufacture
and maintenance of a wide range of engineering products and processes. A
consequence of this is the need for engineers and technicians to adopt an
interdisciplinary and integrated approach to engineering. The term mechatronics
is used to describe this integrated approach. A consequence of this approach is
that engineers and technicians need skills and knowledge that are not confined
to a single subject area. They need to be capable of operating and
communicating across a range of engineering disciplines and linking with those
having more specialized skills.
