Opto-mechatronics-the fusion of optical and mechatronic technologies-has been integral in the evolution of machines, systems, and products that are smaller and more precise, more intelligent, and more autonomous. For the technology to reach its full potential, however, engineers and researchers from many disciplines must learn to work together through every phase of system development. To date, little effort has been expended, either in practice or in the literature, to eliminate the boundaries that exist between the optics and mechatronics communities.