Mechatronics Engineering is a modern discipline that transcends the boundaries between Embedded Systems, Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering. Mechatronics Engineering is commonly defined as “The discipline that focuses on the design and control of electro-mechanical devices” or “the integration of electronics, control engineering and mechanical engineering.”

Today’s designers in particular of medical devices are faced with the task of combining elements of mechanics, electronics, embedded systems and digital signal processing, while coping with the miniaturization of components, the use of prefabricated parts, and their interaction with the patient’s body.  The synthesis of different technologies is already included in modern precision engineering. Continuing developments in miniaturization and fabrication will provide further challenges for Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineers.

The demands of current and future technologies requires engineers that have interdisciplinary skills. The breadth of education required by Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineers will not only provide such skills in the short term, but will enable them in the long term to effectively adapt to rapidly shifting technologies.

At different Universities Mechatronics Engineering is offered with different flavours — Mechanical, Electrical, or Embedded Systems. We, at McMaster University, have designed an innovative world class Mechatronics program that offers a balance of Mechanical, Electrical and Software content with a focus on Embedded Systems Design.  Our Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering program gives students a solid foundation in Mechanical, Software, Electrical, and Biomedical Engineering and then exposes students to a suite of innovative Mechatronics specific lab-based courses for a hands-on experience that provides significant advantages in today’s job market.