都柏林城市大学

About the course

The Mechatronic Engineering degree begins with fundamental scientific principles and leads through to a set of modules dealing with design, analysis, manufacture and modeling of electromechanical products and systems.

The undergraduate programme focuses on eight core areas:

• Basic Science and Mathematics - As the roots of mechatronic engineering are in the sciences and mathematics, you’ll undergo courses in the basic sciences and engineering mathematics.
• Electronic Circuit and Systems Design - Electronic components and systems are explored through electronics modules as well as modules on analogue and digital circuits and systems.
• Mechanical Systems Design and Analysis - Materials Engineering, Fundamentals of Mechanics, Strength of Materials and the Mechanics of Machines provide a foundation for design and analysis of mechanical components and systems.
• Software - Software design and analysis are integral parts of mechatronic engineering. Modules introducing general techniques of software development are given in Years One and Two, with a focus on Embedded Systems in Year Two. You’ll also be introduced to specific software tools through modules and project work.
• Mechatronic/Electromechanical System Design - A key emphasis of this programme is to unite the disciplines of mechanical engineering and electronic engineering. Modules such as the first-year project, the third-year group project and the Year Four project are designed to develop mechatronic skills and awareness. In addition, another core area of mechatronic engineering is the design of electromechanical systems - systems that consist of both electrical and mechanical elements. It is organised around a specific robotic design challenge and is intended to give you an opportunity to integrate and expand your knowledge in several different core areas: digital and analogue electronics, mechanics, software development and control systems.
• Automated Manufacture - Another core area of Mechatronic Engineering is the use of electronics, embedded systems and software in the automation of manufacturing and assembly. In the fourth year, a significant emphasis is placed on autonomous technology and manufacturing automation.
• Project Based Learning - You’ll complete various projects during your four years, culminating in a major individual project in Year Four. Students’ projects normally include elements of research, design, component sourcing, construction, testing and documentation. All projects must be based on at least two of the three core mechatronic elements (namely, mechanical, electronic and software design components).
• Experiential Learning - In Year Three you’ll undertake an industrial work placement for six months (referred to as INTRA). This is usually with a business in Ireland but opportunities may arise abroad and there are also some research positions within DCU.

Careers

Mechatronic engineering skills are in demand by both national and international companies looking to ensure that products they manufacture are up-to-date and can be produced economically.

The skills learned in your course can be applied to many areas, including:

• Medical equipment
• Transport-related industries (e.g. cars, rail, aircraft)
• Hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical controls and drives
• Automated production systems
• Consumer products
• Robotics
• Food processing
• Petrochemicals
• Internet of Things (Connected devices)
• Research and Development Engineer
• Design Engineer
• Production Engineer
• Sales Engineer
• Management Engineer
• System design, concentrating on mechanical systems, electronic hardware, software design or combinations thereof.