electromechanics

Electromechanics is an interdisciplinary field that studies systems in which electrical energy is converted to mechanical energy and vice versa. It encompasses devices and technologies that couple electrical circuits, magnetic fields, and mechanical motion, including electric motors, generators, actuators, sensors, and the control systems that regulate them. The field sits at the intersection of electrical engineering and mechanical engineering and is a major component of mechatronics and automation.

Core concepts include electromechanical transducers, which convert energy between electrical and mechanical forms; actuators such as DC and AC motors, servo and stepper motors, solenoids, and piezoelectric or electrostatic actuators; and sensors that monitor position, speed, torque, or force. Power electronics and drive circuits provide the required voltage, current, and commutation, while control systems and feedback determine behavior. Basic physics relies on electromagnetism, magnetic circuits, and electromechanical energy conversion, with phenomena such as back-EMF, torque, resistance, and efficiency shaping performance.

Applications are diverse and include robotics, CNC manufacturing, automation, automotive subsystems, aerospace actuation, and consumer devices with haptic or precision actuation. Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) extend electromechanics to micro-scale devices, combining microfabrication with sensing and actuation. Electromechanical systems also enable energy harvesting, vibration damping, and adaptive structures.

Research and practice rely on modeling, simulation, and experimental testing; tools include system dynamics, circuit analysis, and finite element analysis. Design methodologies emphasize reliability, safety, efficiency, and compactness, with trends such as smart materials, advanced control, compact power electronics, MEMS integration, and wireless or contactless power transfer.