Emulation-Based Virtual Laboratories: A Low-Cost Alternative to Physical Experiments in Control Engineering Education

Abstract

This paper argues the case for emulation-based virtual laboratories in control engineering education. It demonstrates that such emulation experiments can give students an industrially-relevant educational experience at relatively low cost. The paper also describes a particular emulation-based system that has been developed with the aim of giving students an introduction to real world control engineering design.

Using interactive tools to create an enthusiasm for control in aerospace and chemical engineers

“…This means that even with very large classes (the author has class sizes of around 400) and building access limited to normal working hours, students can still access a VL whenever it suits them and indeed, from the comfort of the bedroom if they want. It is unsurprising therefore that VL are becoming increasingly common (Cameron, 2009;Goodwin et al, 2011;de la Torre et al, 2013;Fabregas et al, 2011;Perez et al, 2011;Guzman et al, 2006;Rossiter, 2012Rossiter, , 2016.…”

Low production cost virtual modelling and control laboratories for chemical engineering students

“…Some of the examples in the literature such as (Cameron 2009, Goodwin et al 2011 are excellent virtual environments on which to study chemical engineering, but the creation of such artefacts is not achievable for most academics indeed the authors of those environments assumed that departments would pay a substantial annual license fee for students to access their simulators. Even what might be considered an accessible (essentially free) web based system and well used software environment (Easy Java Simulation (EJS)) is non trivial to code accept for elementary scenarios (de la Torre 2013, Fabregas 2011, Perez et al 2011, Guzman 2006).…”

An online lab for digital electronics course using information technology supports

“…The use of simulator in practical work activities can enhance understanding of the material provided [6]. In addition, the use of simulator for supporting the practical work activities can also provide the same effectiveness with hands-on method [7]- [9]. Previous research has also shown that the use of the simulator is more efficient rather than the use of real laboratory [10], and provide conveniently and high flexibility [11].…”