1. Future Careers in Embedded Systems, Mechatronics, and Control
Mark W. Spong
Coordinated Science Laboratory University of Illinois
Urbana, IL 61801

2. Embedded Systems
A combination of hardware and software which together form a component of a larger machine. An embedded system is designed to run on its own without human intervention, and may be required to respond to events in real time. Embedded systems are used in industrial machines, automobiles, medical equipment, cameras, household appliances, airplanes, vending machines, cellular phone, PDA’s, toys and many other devices.
According to the National Research Council, Information technology (IT) is on the verge of another revolution. The use of Embedded [Networked] Systems throughout society could well dwarf previous milestones in the information revolution. These systems of embedded computers have the potential to change radically the way people interact with their environment by linking together a range of devices and sensors that will allow information to be collected, shared, and processed in unprecedented ways”.

3. Mechatronics
Definition: Mechatronics is the synergistic combination of precision mechanical engineering, electronic controls and systems engineering in the design of products and processes
Mechatronics is “Putting Intelligence onto Physical Systems”.
Embedded sensors/actuators/processors are integral parts of mechatronic systems
Controls
Mechanics
Sensors
Electronics
Software

4. Let’s look at some examples of mechatronic systems
Automotive Systems
Drive by Wire
Camless Engines
Robotics
Humanoids
Telemedicine/Remote Surgery
An Air Hockey Playing Robot

5. Automotive Systems: Technology in today’s vehicle
Adaptive Cruise Control
Drive by wire
XM Satellite Radio
Telematics (OnStar)
Software drivetrain
Software body control
Rain-sensing Wipers
In-vehicle entertainment
Generation II ABS
Heads-up display
Night Vision
Back-up collision sensor
Navigation
Tire Pressure Monitor

6. Five major technology transitions in the auto industry in the next five to ten years:
Gasoline to hybrid to fuel cell
Mechanical connection to “Drive-by-wire”
Proprietary electrical/hardware/software system to standardized “architectures”
Adoption and implementation of IT standards in the technology of the car (XML, Web Services, etc.)
“On-demand” to “Always-on” vehicle connectivity to the Internet

7. Drive-by-Wire replaces mechanical connections – push rods, rack & pinion, steering columns, overhead cams, cables – by mechatronic connections – sensors, actuators, embedded microprocessors, control software

8. Drive-by-Wire Throttle Control

10. Second Example: Camless Engines
Cams replaced by actuators and embedded controls
What is the advantage?

11. Robotics
The Robot is, of course, the ultimate Mechatronic System

12. Applications of Robotics
Telemedicine/Telesurgery
Unmanned vehicles
Humanoids
Manufacturing automation

13. The CSL Air Hockey Playing Robot
Combines Intelligence Control, Real-Time Vision Sensing and Vision Processing, and Machine Learning

14. Examples are Everywhere Smart Skis

15. Smart Systems of All Kinds
What smart systems will you invent? ?

16. Summary
The combination of mechanics, electronics, computer hardware and software, and control systems will revolutionize technology in the coming decades
This revolution will create exciting career opportunities in:
Automotive and Aerospace Industries
Medicine and Biomedical Industries
Robotics and Automated Manufacturing
Computer Hardware and Software Industries
Telecommunication Industries
We need broadly educated engineers trained in multidisiplinary systems engineering to take advantage of the exciting career opportunities

17. Good Luck ! Thank you for your attention !