Mechatronics

Almost any physical object that can be bought and sold has been through a complex design, manufacturing, and evaluation process. This program takes viewers through all three stages, explaining what each involves and underlining their importance in achieving aesthetic and functional goals. Topics include communication between designer and client or end user; the design brief; the importance of research; initial concepts and refinement; planning and constructing the prototype for production; and last—but far from least—the vital stage of product evaluation. Viewable/printable educational resources are available online.
2007, ClickView Pty Limited. 20 minutes.

The pandemic has been a driver of changes to the already shifting world of work.
2021, PBS. 55 minutes.

Meet Nikola Tesla, the genius engineer and tireless inventor whose technology revolutionized the electrical age of the 20th century. Although eclipsed in fame by Edison and Marconi, it was Tesla's vision that paved the way for today's wireless world.
2016. Distributed by PBS Distribution. 53 minutes.

Introduce viewers to three women who have found gainful employment in the field of robotics and automation. This program profiles Isabelle Tremblay, an engineer specializing in the use of robotics for space exploration; Jessica Amsden, a robotics technician who works in automated manufacturing; and Cheryl Hyrnkiw, owner-operator of Solarbotics, which produces educational robot kits. Commentary from coworkers and supervisors rounds out the descriptions of each job. Part of the series Career Options for Women: Emerging Opportunities.
2006, Visual Education Centre. 24 minutes.

A new industrial revolution is under way. Super-intelligent, docile and never tired, robot workers are carrying out ever more complex tasks. In Saudi Arabia, some have reached such a stage of evolution that they have even acquired the status of citizen! But workers are struggling to find their place in this new world and even the creators themselves suspect that robots are destroying more jobs than they create. What will be their impact on the labor market? Is society prepared for such upheavals?
2018, Java Films, 50 minutes.

After a brief history of electronics starting with valves and vacuum tubes, this program explains the operation of semiconductors, diodes, and transistors. It covers the electronic band structure of conductors, insulators, and semiconductors; doping to boost the conductivity of n- and p-type semiconductors; the functioning of LEDs and photodiodes used in remote-control devices and DVD readers; how NPN transistors work; and the action of MOSFETs, core components in the integrated circuits that control computers, phones, and all other electronic devices. A viewable/printable worksheet is available online.
2011, ClickView Pty Limited. 22 minutes.

A mechatronics engineer discusses her career.
2019, Makematic, 3 minutes.

James May uncovers the fascinating science of engineering, giving the real ‘nuts and bolts’ account of how things really work—from the wheel to the Saturn V rocket. Through animation and motion graphics, James reveals the answers to several questions. How have smart men with spanners managed to change the world? What did steam ever do for us? What is the smartest machine? When can I move to Mars? Learn who has been building skyscrapers for millions of years, what a football has to do with nanotechnology, and how a 180 mph chicken gun and foul-tasting tea can help keep you safe on a plane.
2012. A BBC Production. 44 minutes.

Women are making significant contributions in the fast-growing field of robotics and automation. The owner of a company that produces educational robot kits discusses qualifications, responsibilities, and rewards of her job.
2006, Visual Education Centre. 6 minutes.