I-009

A Mechatronics Minor Program Imbedding Design via a Multidisciplinary International Virtual Design Studio

Authors: Ismet Erkmen, Aydan M. Erkmen
Affiliation: Middle East Technical University Electrical Eng. Dept., Turkey

Abstract
This paper introduces the trend in Mechatronics education at the Engineering Faculty of the Middle East Technical University (METU), which will be initiated as a Mechatronics Minor Program (MMP) in Fall 1999. It has its foundations based on a multi-disciplinary International Virtual Design Studio (MIVDS) course as a capstone design senior project, which is in progress since 1996. The motivation behind this trend is the strong preferences put by the industries towards engineers having a basic knowledge on mechatronic design techniques and design elements such as sensors, actuators and microprocessors. Engineering Faculty of the Middle East Technical University is planning to achieve this new profile of engineers by introducing the interdisciplinary mechatronics minor program. The working philosophy of this effort is that the mechatronics material will be integrated initially into the existing disciplinary programs of Mechanical, Electrical, Computer and Aeronautical Engineering Departments. Students from these departments interested in the mechatronics speciality along with their professions will be offered a composition of interdisciplinary courses. Students who will successfully complete the program will be given a certificate of mechatronics in addition to their disciplinary degrees.

Assoc.Prof. Ismet Erkmen
ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS ENG. DEPT.
MIDDLE EAST TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY,
06531 ANKARA, TURKEY
Tel: 90-312 210 2312, Fax: 90-312 210 1261
erkmen@metu.edu.trmail: