What are advantages and disadvantages of mechatronics?

[Andy_R]

Advantages of mechatronics:

simplified mechanical design
rapid machine setup
rapid development trials
adaptation possibilities
optimized performance, productivity, reliability

Disadvantages of mechatronics:

increased power requirements
real-time calculations/mathematical models

Anything else? Feel free to discuss.

[maddy85]

You should also look from the side of wear out of the mechatronic system. Mechanical parts wear out mildly and electronic parts suddenly (simplified present on the charts below).

Mechanical and electronic parts wear out

So we never know exactly what is the technical condition of the machine.
Another disadvantages is, that the electronic parts are more susceptible to damage when the machine is working in difficult environment, so when it spoil, whole mechatronic system will not fulfill its tasks.

[curiosity]

Advantages:

Mechatronic engineers have excellent employment prospects as the demand for qualified professionals with multidisciplinary skills combining knowledge of mechanical and electronic systems has increased in recent years.
Professional mechatronics engineers are typically found in positions where they are responsible for integrated computer controlled mechanical and electrical systems such as those found in the manufacturing and mining industries. They are also employed in electrical plants and companies where automation and process control is required. Career opportunities in this fast-changing field exist in both private industry and publicly funded enterprises.

Disadvantages:
Different expertise required
More complex safety issues
Increase in component failures
Lifetimes change/vary

In short: as mechatronics engineer you are not limited in any way, you always have the opportunity to specialize in one of the fields of mechatronics and work in this specialization (e.g. control systems, mechanical engineering). This is the future, most machines are mechatronic system (welding robots, packing and assembly, meat processing, smart homes, mechatronic cars and more) and it is a possibility to work in each of the areas of life.