Definition: mechatronics

(MECHAnics elecTRONICS) The combination of mechanical and electronic systems. Embracing robotics, industrial control systems and human interfaces in numerous disciplines, mechatronics is a major step beyond "electromechanical," in which only electricity is required. Mechatronic systems employ microprocessors and software as well as special-purpose electronics. The subhead of CMP's Mechatropolis website when it was in existence said "where mechanical and electronic engineering connect." See animatronics and electromechanical.