In recent years, the industrial automation industry has been developing rapidly; according to statistics, the global automation equipment market is growing at a rate of more than 10% per year. Mechatronics significantly contributes to attaining advanced levels of automation and intelligent control, which are both essential for the successful implementation of automated processes. With the continued growth in the market, led by technological innovation and the released potential of emerging markets, mechatronics looks set to usher in wider prospects for development.

To promote academic exchange and cooperation in mechatronics and automation technology, and share the latest research results and cutting-edge innovations, the 3rd International Conference on Mechatronics and Automation Technology (ICMAT 2024) was held in Wuhan, China on 25 and 26 October 2024. ICMAT 2024 brought together top scholars and researchers from all over the world to share their latest research results and practical experiences in mechatronics and automation technology applications. A number of speakers were specially invited to give keynote speeches at the conference: Zheng Hong (George) Zhu, Professor at York University and General Chair of ICMAT 2024; Ching-Chih Tsai, Professor at National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan, China; Shunli Wang, academician of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences and Professor at the Smart Energy Storage Institute, China, as well as Program Chair of ICMAT 2024; and Li Guo, Professor at Hunan University, China. Together with the other contributors, their presentations shared achievements of scientific research and innovation in a number of fields. Special seminars were also set up to discuss some of the currently hot issues in the field, providing participants with an opportunity for in-depth exchanges and the collision of ideas. A total of 176 submissions were received for the conference, of which 98 papers were ultimately selected after a rigorous process of peer-review. The papers are divided into 6 sections: Mechatronics; Mechanical Manufacturing and Material Design; Robotics and Automation; Intelligent Control and System; Electronic, Electrical and Power Engineering, Sensors and wireless Sensor Networks. Topics covered include intelligent mechatronics, mechanical engineering, 3D printing technologies, robots, automation and control applications, electrical power, energy storage, industrial manufacturing, sensors, actuators, networks, communication and other related interdisciplinary technologies.

We would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for the efforts of all the speakers, editors, reviewers, contributors and participants.

Jinyang Xu