Introduction
Bergmans Mechatronics LLC (BML), founded in 2003, is dedicated to solving technical challenges which exist at the intersection of the mechanical, electronics and software fields.  The figure at right illustrates the fact that the discipline of "mechatronics" resides at the intersection of these three fields. 

Mechatronics was chosen as the main area of concentration for the firm since frequently, engineering projects have a need for support in each of the three areas comprising this discipline.  In addition, working on this class of problems best employs the set of technical skills offered by Mr. John Bergmans, the firm's Principal Engineer and owner.

A unique feature of BML is the ability to work on projects that vary greatly in scale and geographic location.  Projects as small as a several-hour long job to providing on-going support to a large government defense project can readily be accommodated.  BML can also work effectively from both its Newport Beach, CA, base and at remote facilities.  Remote sites at which BML has performed work include locations as diverse as: Sheboygan, WI; Mojave, CA; St. Louis, MO; Harriman, TN; Tulsa, OK; Shreveport, LA; and elsewhere in the Southeastern U.S.

The use of modern Internet-based manufacturing tools allows BML to execute projects rapidly.  These tools include the services of:

• MFG.com, an on-line site for sourcing highly responsive machine shops (www.mfg.com)
• Protocase, a rapid enclosure prototype manufacturer (www.protocase.com)
• Advanced Circuits, a rapid prototype PCB manufacturer (www.4pcb.com) 

BML is flexible on the type of contract structure used for a project.  Depending on the customer's preference, projects can be established on a fixed-price or time-and-materials basis.

The discipline of "Mechatronics" is at the intersection of the
Mechanical, Electrical and Software fields

Personnel
Mr. John Bergmans, the firm's Principal Engineer and owner, is passionate about solving challenging technical problems.  His training as a Mechanical Engineer and his proven abilities in the electronics and software disciplines enable Mr. Bergmans to effectively address a wide variety of technical problems.

Mr. Bergmans has a strong interest in rocket propulsion and combustion-related systems.  On such projects he normally focuses on the development of data acquisition and control systems.  He is also an advocate of the use of laser-based, non-intrusive sensing for industrial applications.  In this capacity, he is introducing the LTS-100 Laser Temperature Sensor to the fossil power and refining industries through on-site demonstration testing and tailoring the system to the requirements of the market.

During his employment at CFD Research Corporation, from 1995 to 2003, Mr. Bergmans was responsible for the development and testing of control systems used to actively control several solid propellant gas generators as well as a solid rocket motor device. In addition, he developed data acquisition systems for a number of experimental programs.

Prior to CFDRC, Mr. Bergmans was involved with the calibration and qualification of a “Tether Force Sensor” for the Canadian Space Agency (1995). This sensor was subsequently flown on a sounding rocket mission and performed successfully.

Mr. Bergmans received his B. Eng. (Mechanical) in 1992 and M. Eng. (Mechanical) in 1995, both from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada.  His Master's thesis work involved the development of a non-contact, photogrammetric sensor for measuring the Euler angles of a rotating dynamic payload simulator.

Skills Set
The above experiences have provided Mr. Bergmans with the skills and insights necessary to support BML's current and future endeavors. Specific technical skills offered by BML include:

• LabVIEW programming services
• Real-time software programming in C within the Real-Time Linux environment
• Control system design and testing using Matlab and Simulink
• Electrical interfacing of data acquisition systems, actuators and sensors
• Printed Circuit Board and electronics enclosure design
• On-site system integration and testing in client’s facilities
• Development of advanced sensor systems
• System documentation and customer support

Careers
In anticipation of future business growth, career-related inquiries from individuals with potentially complementary experiences and skills are invited.  Of particular interest are inquiries from candidates with experience in jet or rocket propulsion, combustion, TDLAS-based instrumentation, and control systems.

Contact
Bergmans Mechatronics LLC
1616 Bedford Lane, Unit A
Newport Beach, CA 92660
p: 714-474-8956
f: 949-646-1429
e: jbergmans <at> bergmans <dot> com

Mr. Bergmans at base of the AirLaunch LLC Vertical Test Stand
following a rocket motor hot fire test

Mr. Bergmans servicing instrumentation
on AirLaunch LLC Horizontal Test Stand

Mr. Bergmans with original LTS-100 prototype
at the TVA Kingston Coal-Fired Power Plant