Mechatronics in the automotive industry: How can B Tech Mechatronics Engineering students can ace it

Introduction to Mechatronics in the Automotive Industry

Automotive mechatronics is a field that involves integrating mechanical and electronic systems throughout the entire lifecycle of a vehicle. To excel in this field, students at the best engineering colleges in India must acquire expertise in automotive mechanics, electronics, communication, advanced control, and modeling.

In the automotive industry, mechatronics refers to a collaborative approach to design that combines mechanical, electrical, computer, and control engineering disciplines. To meet the evolving demands of consumers, design teams in the automotive industry work together to explore innovative applications of emerging technologies.

Examples of mechatronic systems in automobiles include digitally-controlled combustion engines, self-adjusting machine tools, and contact-free magnetic bearings. The integration of mechanical systems with sensors and microprocessors enables advanced control capabilities, which are crucial in mechatronics.

Overview of B Tech Mechatronics Engineering

B Tech Mechatronics Engineering is a multidisciplinary field within B Tech Mechanical Engineering that equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge for the modern automated manufacturing industry. It is a vital engineering discipline in automation and manufacturing, focusing on robotics, electro-mechanical systems, and control systems. By combining mechanics, electronics, and computing, mechatronics enables the development of simpler and more intelligent systems.

Core Skills and Knowledge for Mechatronics Engineers in the Automotive Industry

Different companies in the automotive industry, such as OEMs and supporting automotive industries, require diverse competencies based on their product portfolio. The best engineering colleges in India focus on developing the following skills in B Tech Mechatronics Engineering students to make them industry-ready:

Cross-domain Engineering Skills: This involves having a basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, and electronics disciplines to effectively design multi-disciplinary technologies.

Subject Matter Knowledge: Students gain expertise in a wide range of technologies, enabling them to have a broad understanding of various aspects related to mechatronics in the automotive industry.

Embedded Product Development: Students learn about the development of embedded systems and gain familiarity with different data networking protocols used both inside and outside the vehicle.

Prototyping: Students acquire knowledge and skills in prototyping, including hardware design, software development, EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) compliance, and functional testing.

Analytical, Problem-solving, and Creative Skills: These skills enable students to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions in the field of mechatronics.

Communication Skills: Students are equipped with the ability to effectively communicate technical information and requirements, an essential skill for collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders in the automotive industry.

Importance of Internships and Industrial Training

Some facts about the internship that will clearly explain its benefits for students or individuals new to the workforce.

As per a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) in their 2010 Internship and Co-op survey, approximately 44% of new employees previously participated in an employee internship program

Another survey conducted by NACE in April 2012 revealed that the conversion rate from internships to full-time employment was approximately 58%.

A survey conducted during the 2015-16 period highlighted that nearly 60% of engineering graduates remain unemployed due to a lack of necessary skills and experience.

Furthermore, a study by Wallaroo Media found that 65% of paid internships led to full-time job offers, while 39% of unpaid internships provided opportunities for full-time employment.

Learning by doing is one of the most effective ways of learning. Engineering colleges in Jaipur, including Manipal University Jaipur, adopt this policy and thus make sure that the students are industry-ready even before they step into the industry. At MUJ, students are offered unmatched exposure through internships, industrial training programs, guest lectures, seminars, and talks. Owint to all this Manipal University Jaipur has made a name for itself among the best engineering colleges in India.

Prominent Innovations in Mechatronics for Automotive Industry

Electronic stability control (ESC) uses sensors, a central computer, and mechanical actions to enhance safety and correct issues that could lead to accidents.

The yaw control sensor, located near the car's center, detects swinging movements, activates the brake system, and reduces the throttle to stabilize the vehicle.

ESC information is put into the car's central computer through three sensor types: wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensors, and rotational speed sensors.

Wheel speed sensors measure wheel speed for comparison with engine speed.

Steering angle sensors detect deviations between the driver's intended direction and the car's actual direction.

Rotational speed sensors measure the rotational speed of gear wheels.

Cruise control adjusts the throttle position to control car speed, utilizing a cable-connected actuator to actuate the throttle valve.

Throttle valves regulate engine power and speed by controlling air intake.

Throttle units in most cars are controlled by engine vacuum-powered actuators.

Airbags rapidly inflate during collisions to protect passengers, consisting of a folded nylon fabric in the steering wheel, dashboard, seat, or door.

Advanced airbag systems have crash sensors containing piezoelectric crystals or accelerometers that produce electrical signals when jolted.

Power door locks are controlled by switches that send power to actuators to unlock the doors.

In complex systems, a body controller monitors signals and unlocks doors based on received codes.

The latch mechanism connects/disconnects the outside door handle to the opening mechanism.

In conclusion, mechatronics engineering offers exciting opportunities in the automotive industry. B Tech Mechatronics Engineering students can excel in this field by acquiring the necessary skills, gaining practical experience through internships, and staying updated with the latest innovations and technologies.

Synopsis

The blog explores the field of mechatronics in the automotive industry and how B Tech Mechatronics Engineering students can excel in this field. It begins by introducing automotive mechatronics as the integration of mechanical and electronic systems in vehicles. The importance of cross-disciplinary skills and collaboration in design teams is emphasized, along with examples of mechatronic systems in automobiles.