Improving Understanding of Mechatronics Engineering

Study Case Improving Understanding of Mechatronics Engineering in Schools: Community Service Program at Cincinnati STEM High School Michael Kurniawan (2018123456) University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45221, United States kurniaml@mail.uc.edu Abstract Mechatronics technology is the integration of mechanics, electronics, control, and information systems that play a crucial role in modern industry. Through mechatronics, automation systems can be developed efficiently, increasing productivity and product quality in various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. Examples of mechatronics applications include robotic arms and numerically controlled lathes that can perform complex tasks with customizable programs. Despite the enormous potential of mechatronics, its understanding and application in society, especially in rural communities or high schools, is still limited. This community service program aims to introduce mechatronics techniques to students, teachers, and youth through training and workshops, so that they understand the basic principles and applications of mechatronics in everyday life and small business development. The University of Cincinnati's Department of Electrical Engineering has developed innovations such as the Motor Operated Valve (MOV) system for plant irrigation and Internet of Things (IoT)-based egg incubator monitoring. Collaboration with Cincinnati STEM High School aims to increase understanding of mechatronics, benefit the community, and strengthen competencies in facing the era of Industry 4.0. Keywords: Mechatronics, Automation, Motor Operated Valve (MOV), Internet of Things (IoT), Industry 4.0 MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 1 Study Case INTRODUCTION Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field that combines mechanics, electronics, control, and information systems. This technology enables the development of efficient and effective automation systems, contributing significantly to increased productivity. Classic examples of mechatronic devices include robotic arms and CNC lathes, which can flexibly adjust their programs for various tasks. This makes the production process more adaptive and responsive to changes. Robots are mechanical devices that can perform physical tasks either under human supervision or autonomously based on pre-programmed instructions. Robotic applications are diverse, including humanoid robots, light-following robots, and objectlifting robotic arms. Robots are typically equipped with sensors and control systems that enable complex movements and effective interaction with the surrounding environment. A simple yet effective type of robot for educational purposes is the line follower robot, which can follow a specific path using light sensors. These sensors detect the contrast between the path and the surrounding surface so that the robot can adjust its movements. The advantages of using robots in industry include: • Increased Productivity: Robots work continuously without stopping, increasing production output and reducing cycle times. • Consistent Quality: High precision reduces human error and improves product quality. • Reduced Operating Costs: Although the initial investment is high, the use of robots can reduce labor costs in the long run. • Work Safety: Robots can handle dangerous tasks, reducing the risk of worker injuries. However, the understanding of mechatronics in society, especially in rural communities or high schools far from technology centers, is still low due to limited access to information and a lack of training. This community service program aims to introduce mechatronics techniques directly through training, workshops, and mentoring, so that participants can understand the basic principles and apply their knowledge in their daily lives and small businesses. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 2 Study Case The University of Cincinnati's Department of Electrical Engineering has produced innovations such as the Motor Operated Valve (MOV) system for automatic irrigation and IoT-based egg incubator monitoring. Cincinnati STEM High School offers STEM programs focused on engineering and technology, equipping students with mechanical, electronic, and programming skills. This collaboration aims to broaden the understanding of mechatronics, improve student competencies, and benefit the local community. METHOD OF IMPLEMENTATION This program uses a participatory method that involves schools, students, teachers, and lecturers as resource persons. Active participation of participants is key to understanding the concept of mechatronics and its application based on the innovation of the University of Cincinnati. The implementation stages are divided into: 1. Preparation: Coordination with the school, scheduling, and sending official letters to explain the objectives and plans for the activity. 2. Implementation: The program will be held on March 7, 2024, at Cincinnati STEM High School. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 3 Study Case Figure 1. Introduction to Mechatronics for Cincinnati STEM High School Students The outreach method also included outreach design, data sources, data collection techniques, and analysis to assess the program's effectiveness, comprising approximately 10-15% of the total article. ACTIVITY RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The activity focused on two main topics: 1. Introduction to Mechatronics Engineering 2. Introduction to the University of Cincinnati's research results Basic Concepts of Mechatronics Engineering Mechatronics integrates the fields of mechanical engineering, electronics, control, and computers. The goal is to create efficient, adaptive, and intelligent systems through a combination of mechanical and electronic components with software and automatic controls. Examples of applications include industrial robots, automated machines, and intelligent control systems. The fields studied include: • Electronics and Instrumentation: Electronic components, sensors, and actuators for operating automated systems. • Mechanical Engineering: Mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and analysis of mechanical components. • Programming and Control Systems: Microcontrollers, computer programming, and automatic control. • Computer Systems and IoT: Integration of devices through the Internet of Things for remote monitoring and control. • Robotics: Design and operation of robots for various automated tasks. Career Prospects In the era of Industry 4.0, opportunities for mechatronics graduates are vast: • Industrial Automation: Manufacturing companies need mechatronics experts for automated production systems. • Robotics and AI: Development of collaborative robots and artificial intelligencebased systems. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 4 Study Case • IoT and Smart Systems: Smart homes, smart cities, smart agriculture, and healthcare. • Electric and Autonomous Vehicles: Electric and autonomous vehicle technology. • Healthcare Industry: Surgical robots and automated medical equipment. University of Cincinnati Research Results • MOV Automatic Irrigation System: Used for agricultural land with remote control via smartphone. Comparison with manual valves shows a dramatic increase in efficiency from 63.45 seconds to only 6 seconds per cycle. Figure 2. Agricultural Land with MOV System Agricultural land using piping and MOV for automatic irrigation. Figure 3. Motor Operated Valve (MOV) MOV uses an electric motor to open, close, or regulate the flow of liquids/gases, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of ergonomic injuries. • IoT-Based Egg Incubator Monitoring System: Incubators connected to NodeMCU ESP8266, temperature and humidity sensors, and a smartphone MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 5 Study Case application for remote monitoring. The algorithm was developed using Arduino IDE and Blynk to control temperature and humidity. CONCLUSION The community service program at Cincinnati STEM High School on March 7, 2024, provided students with a comprehensive understanding of mechatronics. The material session explained basic concepts, fields of study, and career prospects. Demonstrations of real projects, such as MOV and IoT-based egg monitoring systems, enriched students' insights into the application of technology in daily life and industry. Interactive discussion sessions increased students' interest and enthusiasm for mechatronics. Recommendations for future activities include extending the duration of discussions and adding demonstrations of mechatronics tools for a more complete practical experience. REFERENCE MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 6 Study Case MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 7