Sensors in, for and by mechatronics: a symbiosis

Abstract

Sensors are central to mechatronic systems. This is so because mechatronic systems are esseritiaiIy dependent on information. Some of this inforniation is provided a priori, via programming of embedded microprocessors, but most is acquired during operation via sensory subsystems. Indeed the functioning of most mechatronic systems is critically dependent on these subsystems. (Machine vision subsystems are, of course, fundamentally sensors and can provide very rich information input.) But the interrelation of mechatronics and sensor technology is wider than this. Sensory subsystems within mechatronic systems - and vice versa - can fulfill a range of purposes: these may be grouped as follows: Sensors embedded within mechatronic systems. Sensing capabilities enhanced by mechatronics. The use of mechatronics to create 'a sensor'.