A new approach for mechatronic system design: mechatronic design quotient (MDQ)

In mechatronic system design, many issues are very complicated and are under multiple design criteria. In this paper a general and integrated approach is presented for the design of complex electro-mechanical systems. The formal approach is based on the concept of mechatronic design quotient (MDQ). Five steps are presented to establish and optimize an MDQ index. The approach is illustrated with respect to the engineering decision making processes incorporated in manipulator design. Various design aspects of the complex problem including the number of degrees of freedom (DOF), kinematic structure, disposition of actuators and transmissions, and controller hardware and software, are addressed. As a specific example, the selection of motors is considered concurrently under multiple criteria and the pertinent decision is made using an MDQ index