The integration of mechanical systems and microelectronics opens new possibilities for mechanical design and automatic functions. After a discussion of the mechanical and electronic design the organization of information processing in different levels is described. Within this frame "low-degree-intelligent" mechatronic systems can be developed which comprise adaptive control, supervision with fault diagnosis, and decisions with regard to further actions. This requires the realization of knowledge-based systems with learning abilities. Some aspects of the design of information processing including modeling and estimation, control, and supervision methods are considered. Finally as an example an adaptive semiactive shock absorber or vehicle suspension systems is shown.