What's the difference between mechatronics and robotics?

Mechatronics and robotics are closely related fields, but they differ in scope and focus:

• Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary field that combines mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and control systems to design and create intelligent systems and products. It involves integrating various technologies to improve the functionality and performance of mechanical systems, such as in automation, sensors, and control systems.

• Robotics, a subset of mechatronics, specifically focuses on the design, development, and operation of robots. Robotics emphasizes creating machines that can perform tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously, often involving complex algorithms, sensors, and actuators to enable movement and interaction with the environment.

In short, mechatronics covers a broader range of systems, while robotics focuses specifically on machines designed for autonomous or controlled tasks.