The difference between mechatronics and mechanics, explained once and for all

　　With the continuous development of modern science and technology, the vigorous promotion of interdisciplinary crossovers and penetration has led to technological revolutions and reforms in the engineering field. Mechatronics integrates mechanical and electronic technologies. Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary integration of mechanics, electronics, optics, control, and computer science, whose development and progress depend on and promote the development and progress of related technologies.

　　Mechanical technology is the foundation of mechatronics. The focus of mechanical technology is on how to adapt to mechatronics technology, using other advanced technologies to update concepts and achieve changes in structure, materials, and performance to meet the requirements of reducing weight, reducing size, improving precision, improving rigidity, and improving performance. In the manufacturing process of mechatronic systems, classical mechanical theories and processes should utilize computer-aided technology, while also employing artificial intelligence and expert systems, forming a new generation of mechanical manufacturing technology.

　　A machine is a tool or device that helps people reduce the difficulty or effort of work. Items like tweezers can be called machines.

　　Mechanical engineering gains its development momentum under the pressure of constantly increasing demands in various aspects, while also gaining the ability to improve and innovate from the progress of various disciplines and technologies.

　　Regarding the difference between mechatronics and mechanics, here are some examples:

　　1. A bicycle is a purely mechanical product. Designing a bicycle is purely mechanical design; its mechanics are mainly used in construction.

　　2. A car is a product of mechatronics. Its electrical components are not isolated from the body but are perfectly integrated. Therefore, mechanical engineers who design cars must understand electricity.

　　3. The same is true for the machine tool industry. Older machine tools have essentially no complex electrical components, and mechanical engineers can design them independently. However, modern machine tools use CNC systems, photoelectric detection systems, and even lasers. Therefore, to design such machine tools, the engineer must understand both mechanics and electricity; this type of work (this profession) is called mechatronics.

　　Mechatronic equipment is one of the important components of buildings. Through technological updates and renovations, it can effectively ensure engineering quality, reduce engineering costs, and increase economic benefits.