The evolution of mechatronics has unfolded in three distinct phases, each marked by technological advancements and growing integration between mechanical and electronic systems. In the early stages before the 1960s, this period was characterized by a rudimentary application of electronic innovations to enhance traditional mechanical devices. Although not formally recognized as mechatronics at the time, the use of basic electronics in machinery began to take shape, especially during World War II. Military technologies that combined mechanical and electronic components were later adapted for civilian use, contributing significantly to post-war economic recovery. However, due to the limited state of electronic technology, these developments remained relatively simple and did not lead to widespread adoption.
The second phase, spanning the 1970s and 1980s, marked a turning point in the field. With the rapid advancement of computer technology, control systems, and communication networks, mechatronics found a solid technical foundation. The emergence of large-scale integrated circuits and microcomputers provided the necessary hardware to support more complex and intelligent systems. This era saw Japan take the lead in adopting and promoting mechatronics, which eventually gained global recognition. During this time, mechatronic products became more sophisticated, and governments and industries around the world started investing heavily in research and development. This phase laid the groundwork for the widespread integration of mechanical and electronic systems in various sectors.
In the late 1990s, mechatronics entered a new phase of deep development, with a strong emphasis on intelligence. Optical and communication technologies were increasingly incorporated into mechatronic systems, giving rise to new subfields such as opto-mechatronics and micro-mechatronics. Researchers began exploring advanced modeling, analysis, and integration techniques, further refining the theoretical framework of the discipline. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, neural networks, and fiber optics opened up exciting possibilities for future applications. These innovations helped establish a more comprehensive scientific system for mechatronics, paving the way for even greater advancements in the years to come.
China's engagement with mechatronics began in the early 1980s, with the establishment of the Mechatronics Leading Group and its inclusion in the "863 Program," a national initiative aimed at fostering high-tech development. As part of its long-term planning, including the "Ninth Five-Year Plan" and the 2010 Development Outline, China considered global trends in mechatronics and their potential impact on the economy and industry. Many universities, research institutions, and enterprises have since contributed to the development and application of mechatronics, achieving notable progress. However, compared to leading countries like Japan, there is still room for improvement in terms of innovation, technology maturity, and industrial application.
The purpose of using fabric sandwiched rubber sealing material is to increase the stiffness and strength of the sealing ring, prevent rubber extrusion, and make it suitable for high pressure. At the same time, in the process of wear, rubber wears ahead of fabric. When the rubber of the parts with high contact pressure wears off, the wear extends to the parts with low contact pressure, so that the wear of the whole sealing surface tends to be uniform, but the friction does not change significantly. However, the lip of the rubber sealing ring sandwiched with fabric can easily scrape off the oil film on the sliding surface, so the lubricity is worse than that of leather and polytetrafluoroethylene.
DG Zhongxingshun Sealing Products Factory , https://www.zxs-seal.com