Present Status and Future of Opto-Mechatronics

抄録

Computer machine systems employing optical technologies have been rapidly increasing in volume in our offices and homes. They are represented by image scanners, laser printers and optical memories. These systems are created by the integration of three basic hardware technologies : mechanics, electronics and optics, and software technologies. In the 1970's, the concept of mechatronics was born by integrating mechanics and electronics. With the recent progress of optical technologies, especially the development of semiconductor lasers the mechatronics concept is being advanced to opto-mechatronics. Focusing on information systems and measurement systems, the current status of the technology is described and its future trends are predicted.