Mechatronics vs. cyber physical systems: Towards a conceptual framework for a suitable design methodology

This paper presents a conceptual framework for Mechatronics, Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) and electromechanics. This framework is made for CPS and Mechatronics initially, by looking at the background of those systems. A distinction is then proposed between Mechatronics and Electromechanics, with an energy-based approach. These distinctions are envisioned as an important factor that could influence the selected design methodology. The processes, the organizational structure and the procedures relative to the design projects can thus be adapted according to the metrics and parameters qualifying the system to be designed.