Trends in Mechatronics
- Faculty
Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science
- Version
Version 1 of 13.01.2026.
- Module identifier
11B2082
- Module level
Bachelor
- Language of instruction
English, German
- ECTS credit points and grading
5.0
- Module frequency
only winter term
- Duration
1 semester
- Special features of the module
Teaching language English or German as agreed with the lecturers.
- Brief description
In this seminar, which is taught in English, students explore the latest trends in the field of mechatronics. Based on scientific publications, the seminar deals with new technologies, methods and applications. Trends in robotics, automation and Industry 4.0 such as on-demand production, Internet of Things (IoT), additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and nanomechatronic systems will be discussed. The list of these trends is not exhaustive, which is why the seminar gives students an impression of the multifaceted interdisciplinary research directions and dares to look beyond the boundaries of classical mechatronics.
- Teaching and learning outcomes
- Interdisciplinary research directions and current trends in mechatronics
- overview of the rapid development in recent years
- importance of interdisciplinary research in sustainable mechatronics
- Current trends in detail (not complete, only possible trends)
- on-demand production
- nanomechatronic systems
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- quantum computers
- additive manufacturing and 3D printing
- Sustainability
- resource-saving manufacturing
- improving energy efficiency
- cradle to cradle - circular economy
- Usability and ethics
- ergonomics and design
- social and societal impact
- Interdisciplinary research directions and current trends in mechatronics
- Overall workload
The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").
- Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning Workload hours Type of teaching Media implementation Concretization 10 Lecture - 25 Seminar - 25 Individual coaching - Lecturer independent learning Workload hours Type of teaching Media implementation Concretization 20 Study of literature - 15 Presentation preparation - 55 Creation of examinations -
- Graded examination
- Oral presentation, with written elaboration
- Exam duration and scope
Presentation: 30 minutes; accompanying essay: 8 pages
- Recommended prior knowledge
Knowledge of mechatronic systems is a prerequisite.
- Knowledge Broadening
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- Knowledge deepening
Students will be able to establish the relationship between current trends in mechatronics and their impact on the environment and society and develop solutions for the sustainable design of these technologies.
- Knowledge Understanding
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- Application and Transfer
Students will be able to develop innovative mechatronic systems, including those from areas such as the Internet of Things (IoT), additive manufacturing, and nanomechatronic systems from conception to real-world application, taking into account the technical and interdisciplinary complexity as well as the relevant sustainability aspects. Using their knowledge, they can also integrate these concepts and technologies into existing production processes and systems to drive efficiency, sustainability, and innovation.
- Academic Innovation
Students are able to develop methods and techniques that are suitable for systematically tackling complex challenges in mechatronics. This includes, for example, the integration of additive manufacturing into existing systems, implementing sustainable, resource-saving production processes, and the development of innovative solutions.
- Communication and Cooperation
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- Academic Self-Conception / Professionalism
By critically questioning existing mechatronic trends and learning technical English, students can increase their influence on the sustainable development and implementation of these technologies by taking well-founded action and promoting international discourse and cooperation.
- Literature
Various current scientific articles and publications.
- Applicability in study programs
- Mechatronics
- Mechatronics B.Sc. (01.09.2025)
- Agricultural Technologies
- Agricultural Technologies B.Sc. (01.09.2025)
- Person responsible for the module
- Schöning, Julius
- Teachers
- Schöning, Julius
- Stiene, Stefan
- Niemeyer, Philip