A bottom up approach to teaching mechatronics

This paper describes a new teaching program in mechatronics at the College of Judea and Samaria, designed to provide students with knowledge and skills in mechanics, electronics, computers, and their integration. The curriculum consists of a basic program in Mechanical Engineering, augmented with courses and laboratories in electronics and computers that are offered early in the program. The integration of the various disciplines is accomplished primarily through hands-on experience in the robotics and mechatronics laboratories. The early introduction of electronics and computers brings students prepared to the final capstone design project, in which students design and build a working mechatronic/robotic system.