MECHATRONIC DRIVE OF A SCRAPER CONVEYOR AS AN INTEGRATED MODULE OF POWER ENGINEERING, AUTOMATED AND INFORMATION-CONTROL SYSTEMS

The article examines the application of mechatronic principles using scraper conveyors as an example, which are among the key mechanisms for transporting bulk materials in the agro-industrial sector and industry. The authors propose the structure of a scraper conveyor as a mechatronic module that integrates mechanical, electromechanical and electronic components, which ensures high reliability, productivity and flexibility of the system as a whole. Special attention is paid to the use of two-speed induction motors, which makes it possible to implement a staged start-up of the conveyor: first at low speed for smooth acceleration and reduction of inrush currents, and then at the rated high speed to provide the required throughput and optimize energy consumption. This approach significantly reduces overloads of the mechanisms, increases the energy efficiency and service life of the equipment, and also reduces the likelihood of emergency situations. The paper provides a detailed analysis of functional control schemes for the conveyor drive and start-up algorithms, including adaptive solutions that take into account variable load, material type and operating conditions. The interaction between the electronic control system and the mechanical components of the conveyor is analyzed, which ensures optimal load distribution on the gearbox, traction elements and drive mechanisms, and also enables in-depth diagnostics of the equipment condition and planning of preventive maintenance. Such integration increases the productivity, reliability and durability of the scraper conveyor and contributes to the efficient use of energy resources with minimal operator involvement. The abstract emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the research: the combination of knowledge in power supply, electrical technologies, automation, electronics, digital circuitry, information technologies and application software makes it possible to create a comprehensive mechatronic control system that can be implemented in modern agro-industrial and industrial production processes. The proposed solution demonstrates the possibility of integrating automated and information-controlled components into transport systems to increase their adaptability, energy efficiency and operational safety. The obtained results may be useful for engineers, researchers, developers and technical specialists involved in the design, implementation and operation of automated bulk-material conveying systems in agriculture, the agro-industrial sector and industry in general. They provide practical recommendations on the integration of mechanical, electromechanical and electronic components within a single mechatronic module, as well as on the optimization of start-up algorithms and control of conveyor drives. In addition, the research findings can be used to improve the energy efficiency, productivity and reliability of transport systems, reduce maintenance costs and extend equipment lifetime. They are also of considerable value to university lecturers and students who study mechatronics, automated power systems, modern methods of controlling electrical equipment, as well as digital and information technologies in industry. Using the obtained results in the educational process makes it possible to develop practical competencies in the design of integrated automated systems, in the analysis of their dynamic characteristics, and in the development of algorithms for adaptive control and equipment diagnostics. In addition, the results may be useful for research groups and scientific laboratories involved in improving transport equipment, implementing intelligent control systems, and optimizing energy consumption in production processes. The interdisciplinary approach makes it possible to combine knowledge of power supply, electrical technologies, automation, electronics, digital circuit design, information technologies and application software, which contributes to increasing the efficiency and innovation potential of industrial and agro-industrial systems. The research results not only enhance the scientific and technical level of knowledge in the field of mechatronics and automation, but also create a practical foundation for the development of modern, integrated and highly efficient automated material transportation systems.