Course: Project Mechatronics - Implementation credits: 5

In this module the implementation phase of a mechatronic project will be treated and experienced in depth. Starting at a complete design and progressing up to the point of a full realization of a prototype with testing, evaluation and recommendations. 

Professional Products 

• Mechatronic specifications of a (partial) product – Detailed descriptions of the properties, functionalities, dimensions, performance, materials, behaviour, components and interfaces of a system that integrates mechanical, electrical, and software elements. They indicate exactly how the product must be designed, built and function in order to meet the stated requirements. 
• Software for mechatronic systems – The programming and control algorithms that integrate mechanical, electrical, and computational components to enable the functionality and coordination of mechatronic systems. It includes software for sensor data processing, actuator control, system monitoring, and user interface, ensuring seamless operation across all system parts. 
• Proof of concept – A prototype or small test setup used to demonstrate that an idea, theory or design is feasible in practice.  
• Prototype – An early, working version of a product or system created to test its design, functionality, and usability.  
• Accountability (document) – A report, presentation, or conversation in which the process of explaining and justifying decisions, actions, and results to stakeholders takes place. It shows how goals have been achieved and resources have been used, often with evidence to ensure transparency and trust.  
• Test documentation – The set of documents that describe the testing process, including test plans, test cases, test results, and any error reports. It provides insight into the test strategy, the tests performed, and the results achieved to evaluate the quality of a product. 
• Test execution – The process of conducting tests according to a predefined test plan, where the functionality, performance, or safety of a product or system is assessed. The goal is to identify errors or shortcomings and verify whether the product meets the specifications. This can involve the use of simulations, measurements, measurement reports, and test setups. 
• Recommendations –  Suggestions or advice provided based on analysis or experience, aimed at improving a situation, process, or outcome. They offer solutions or guidelines for taking future steps. 

Skills 

• Mechanical fabrication – The  process of constructing and shaping mechanical components or structures through processes such as cutting, welding, machining, bending, and assembling materials. 
• Rapid prototyping – The fast creation of physical or digital models of a product or component to test, evaluate, and improve designs in the early stages of development. This can be done using techniques such as 3D printing, laser cutting, or CAD software. 
• Practical skills (e.g. assembly, maintenance, measuring, programming etc.) 
• Quality and test skills (e.g. testing, working with standards etc.) 
• Project skills (e.g. project management, planning, budgeting, etc.) 
• Communication skills (e.g. presenting progress, cooperation, teamwork, feedback, etc.) 

Knowledge 

• Dependent on the project, knowledge obtained in other courses of the Mechatronics modules will be deepened and applied. Additional knowledge will be obtained dependent on the specific project