A PROPOSAL FOR THE USE OF DIAGRAMS OF UML FOR MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING

摘要

The paper intends to explore the use of the diagrams of UML (unified modeling language) in the product development process of mechatronical products. The analyzed product development process concerns the development of a brake for a mobile robot. The patented steering principle of the robot is based on torque differences. This kind of steering system can by enhanced by equipping the steering axles with brakes. The developed brake uses a smart material - a ferromagnetic shape memory alloy (FSMA) - and had the unique characteristic to compensate wear and tear. The embodiment of the brake has already been registered as a patent. The experience during this development was used to reflect on an appropriate methodology for mechatronical design.