What is mechatronics and how can I start this career?

We’re experiencing a major transformation about the way we produce products because of digitisation of manufacturing. This is called Industry 4.0 to represent the fourth revolution that has occurred in manufacturing.

Smart factories are being created where computers are connected and communicate with one another to make decisions without human involvement. Our factories will become more efficient and productive and less wasteful. It’s the network of these machines that are digitally connected with one another and create and share information that results in the true power of Industry 4.0.

The computers collect a tremendous volume of data that can inform maintenance and performance, as well as analyse data to identify patterns and insights that would be impossible for a human to do in a reasonable timeframe. Industry 4.0 offers the opportunity for manufacturers to optimize their operations quickly and efficiently by knowing what needs attention.

New skills required

These emerging technologies mean that there are opportunities to learn new skills for working in automated manufacturing. In response to this, Ayrshire College has introduced a new course for 2019 to upskill our engineers of the future – HNC Mechatronics.

What is Mechatronics?

Mechatronics combines electronics and mechanical engineering. This combination is used in the design of products and manufacturing. Application of mechatronics results in synchronizing a mechanical structure with its control, using electronic systems. An industrial robot is a good example of mechatronics.

In recognition of this transformational change, we have invested heavily in state-of-the-art equipment to offer the mechatronics course and provide our students with the skills for working in smart factories.

We have invested over £500K in three CNC Mazak and Doosan machines and Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi, Siemens and SMC training rigs to help our students learn about all the main areas of automation engineering.  On this course you will gain experience in the following technologies; electrical, pneumatic, vacuum, electric motors, sensors, programme controllers, manipulators and motion controllers.

At the end of the course you will have learned skills in analysis, trouble shooting, designing, technical document creation and understanding, operation and programming.

Because of the range of computing, electrical and mechanical skills you will learn, there will be a wide variety of job opportunities available once qualified.

If you are interested in the HNC Mechatronics, we have places available for full-time and day release at our Kilmarnock Campus starting August 2019.

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