An Introduction to Real-Time Computing for Mechanical Engineers: A Lab-Based Approach

by Rico A. R. Picone, Joseph L. Garbini, Cameron N. Devine

Overview

A comprehensive introduction to real-time computing for mechanical engineers and engineering students that integrates theory and application.

There are many textbooks that cover real-time computing, but none designed specifically for mechanical engineering curricula. Filling this gap, Rico Picone, Joseph Garbini, and Cameron Devine provide mechanical engineers and engineering students with a comprehensive introduction to real-time computing that integrates theory and application. The book presents the key ideas required to realize mechatronic systems that include real-time computers as functional components. Learning is organized around a sequence of nine hands-on laboratory exercises. Topics include scheduling, interrupts, timing, real-time operating systems, computer hardware, C programming, device drivers, algorithms, digital electronics, communication, amplifiers, encoders, finite state machines, discrete dynamic systems, and digital feedback control. Leading readers through the process of designing and implementing real-time systems while applying the architecture and resources of a modern real-time development environment, this text provides an essential foundation that can be implemented and extended throughout an engineering career.

• The first real-time computing textbook designed for mechanical engineers
• Offers hands-on instruction in the design and programming of real-time mechatronic systems
• Introduces fundamental computing and programing topics
• Includes detailed coverage of user interaction, real-time program organization, timing control, and interface hardware
• Ideal for advanced undergraduate and first-year graduate students as well as for self-study

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780262379304
Publisher:	MIT Press
Publication date:	03/03/2026
Sold by:	Penguin Random House Publisher Services
Format:	eBook
Pages:	488

About the Author

Rico A. R. Picone is Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Saint Martin’s University, where he researches augmented cognition, artificial intelligence, and cybernetics.

Joseph L. Garbini is Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Washington.  His technical interests include controls, instrumentation, robotics and design.

Cameron N. Devine is Visiting Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Saint Martin’s University. His research interests include control systems, robotics, and manufacturing.

Table of Contents

Preface
0 Getting Started
1 Real-Time Computing Fundamentals
2 Efficient Design and Programming the Mid-Level UI
3 Digital Communication, Signals, and Programming the Low-Level UI
4 Motor Control, Finite-State Machines, and Waiting for Real-Time
5 RT Scheduling with Threads and Interrupts, Digital Circuits, and
Mechanical Switches
6 Digital Realization of Dynamic Systems
7 Closed-Loop Motor Velocity Control with a Digital Controller
8 PID Motor Position Control and Path Planning
Bibliography
Index