Wireless communication technology for modular mechatronic controllers

Abstract

Modular mechatronics systems comprise of mechatronics sub-systems that are functionally complete and can be independently operated. These sub-systems can be readily fitted and connected to, or in combination with, additional sub-systems. Advantages of modular Mechatronics design of systems include flexibility to changing environmental needs, low-cost due to standardization of the subsystems, inter-connect ability and inter-changeability of sub-systems with each other, and improved system reliability due to modular architecture. Communication technology allows for the systematic integration of mechatronics sub-systems in order to achieve complex integrated mechatronics system which would be difficult to achieve without the use of information technology (IT). Communication technology allows for the remote, real-time control of mechatronics systems e.g. the use of communication to send control signals from haptic device and feedback signals from robotic manipulator in robotics-aided surgery where the surgeon and patient are in different locations (e.g. countries).