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The CSIR's new mechatronics laboratory with its glass front is designed to stimulate innovation and creativity
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A new mechatronics laboratory designed to stimulate innovation and creativity has been set up at the CSIR's mechatronics and micromanufacturing research group. It is a R500 000 investment by the CSIR that provides engineers and researchers with the perfect environment in which to explore mechatronic applications researched within the CSIR.
"Mechatronics is a field that brings together four disciplines, namely computers and electronic, mechanical and control systems. It has applications in fields as wide as manufacturing, consumer products, materials processing and defence systems to the automotive, aerospace and medical industries," says Peter Bosscha, mechatronics research group leader.
"We needed the new mechatronics lab to realise the practical outcomes of our projects. This is where we now create and build all kinds of manufacturing aids, industrial control and monitoring systems and robotic applications."
The mechatronics lab hosts four permanent staff members but is accessed by the entire CSIR mechatronics team. It can also host multiple visiting engineers and features state-of-the-art electronics and mechanical workbenches.
"But it is the design of the lab that has, thus far, incited a great deal of comment from visitors," says Bosscha. Two walls of the lab are entirely made of angled glass sheets, leaving the work that is done there open for viewing to any passer-by. As the lab is located right across from one of the CSIR's popular meeting venues, it creates much curiosity and interest."
The lab also sports a display case showcasing past work done by the mechatronics group. Here, for instance, one can find models of a rotary wing unmanned aerial vehicle (an unmanned helicopter), the basics for a swarming robotic system and a model of an omni-wheeled vehicle.
"The lab's entire look and feel, which is fresh, modern and bright, combined with the glass-fronted design, is conducive to creative and innovative thinking. It brings out the best in our engineers," concludes Bosscha.
Enquiries: CSIR Communication
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