Are Mechanical Engineers Skilled in Making Electronic Devices and Signal Processing?

Mechanical engineers typically focus on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Their expertise lies in areas such as mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and fluid dynamics. While they may have some exposure to electronics and signal processing, particularly in interdisciplinary fields like mechatronics or robotics, their primary training is not centered on these areas.

In projects that involve electronic devices and signal processing, mechanical engineers often collaborate with electrical engineers or specialists in those fields to integrate electronic components and systems effectively. However, some mechanical engineers may choose to further their education or gain experience in electronics, allowing them to work on projects that require a blend of mechanical and electronic skills.

Insights from an Electrical Engineer

As an electrical engineer who currently supervises three recent Mechanical Engineering graduates from different schools, observing the capabilities of these graduates and experienced mechanical engineers over the years, I have noticed that many mechanical engineers today have experience with simple devices like Raspberry Pi or Arduino. This includes understanding low-level programming and basic hardware components, such as hooking up wires and signal voltages.

However, the knowledge extends only as far as this. Most mechanical engineers do not possess a deep understanding of even simple electrical engineering concepts like Ohm's Law, let alone advanced concepts such as signal processing. In one instance, I had to assist a mechanical engineer in wiring mechanical sensors because he was unaware of the difference between voltage and current mode sensors and how to implement a basic voltage divider to connect a 0-10V sensor to a 0-5V input.

Interdisciplinary Expertise

It is worth noting that the distinction between mechanical and electrical engineering is not absolute. Electrical engineers also do not generally possess extensive skills in making mechanical things. However, both fields can and do engage in interdisciplinary collaborations to bridge the gap between mechanical and electronic systems.

In the realms of mechatronics and robotics, there is a growing need for expertise that combines mechanical engineering and electrical engineering. Mechanical engineers with additional knowledge in electronics can contribute significantly to these projects, and likewise, electrical engineers with an understanding of mechanics can enhance their capabilities in the design and production of mechanical systems.

Conclusion

While mechanical engineers generally do not specialize in the design and production of electronic devices and signal processing, they can have a solid grasp of these concepts if they are specialized in certain areas or have additional training. Similarly, electrical engineers may not be deeply versed in making mechanical things. However, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration cannot be overstated in today's complex and rapidly evolving technological landscape.