Mechatronics is an engineering branch that is derived from the synergistic combination of electronic, mechanical, computer and systems design engineering. This combination or blend of the different branches of engineering has directly assisted in the invention and manufacture of a large number of useful products. Mechatronics, the term, is best defined as a multidisciplinary engineering system design that was put together for the benefit of mankind as a whole. The discipline of mechatronics does not involve the splitting of engineering into isolated disciplines, but rather the coming together of engineering disciplines to make mechatronics what it is. Examples of ‘mechatronics at work’ include completely automated robotic assembly lines, laser printers, stair-climbing wheelchairs, hybrid automobiles, etc. Mechatronics because of its usefulness is now proving to be one of the most functional of the various existing engineering disciplines. It is being employed now more than ever before and this is creating a lot of interest in the discipline. This is resulting in people chasing it down as a serious career option. Read on to know what it takes to stitch together a successful career in mechatronics and the best institutes offering courses in the same.
Eligibility
As far as an undergraduate course in mechatronics goes, a student in order to be eligible for one will have to be done with his/her 10+2 or an equivalent. The student will also have to compulsorily hail from a science background with more than average marks to get admitted to an institute of repute. There are also masters and PhD courses in mechatronics. To be eligible for masters in mechatronics, a student will have to be done with a bachelors degree in engineering. The bachelors degree can mostly, if allowed by the respective institute, be done in either one of the many branches of engineering. Students or engineers can also complete the circle by opting to do a PhD or a doctoral level degree in mechatronics.
Details Of The Course
Since mechatronics is a combination of electronical, control, mechanical and systems design engineering, a course in the discipline will throw light on the other disciplines that go into the making of mechatronics. Typically, a mechatronics course will focus on both the application and the theoretical perspectives associated with the branch of engineering. The course, be it an undergraduate course, a masters program or a PhD program will comprise numerous illustrations, diagrams, examples, experiments, etc. All this is taught to help students develop familiarity with circuits, motors, controls, microprocessors, software, hardware, third-party applications, etc.
Career Prospects
An engineer with good marks and knowledge to back him/her up can always land a job in a company of repute and with an enviable salary. However, with the importance given to mechatronics in recent times, an engineering graduating with a degree in mechatronics will only find it that much easier to land a plum job. Companies ‘plying their wares’ in the electronics or mechanics manufacturing industry will be more than willing to hire an individual with a degree and experience in mechatronics. These individuals because of their knowledge and experience in design, implementation and control of machines and management systems become a hiring company’s most valuable asset. Graduates of mechatronic engineering can find jobs in companies associated with automobiles, gas and oil, manufacturing, defense establishments, robotics, aerospace, aviation and transport. Although mechatronics is a relatively new branch of engineering, jobs and opportunity for growth still do exist, just like they do in any other field.
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Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology, New Delhi, India
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Sastra University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India
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Kongu Engineering College, Erode, Tamil Nadu, India
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S.N.M Polytechnic, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, India
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Karpagam College of Engineering, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
