Virtual instrumentation based learning methodology for teaching power system measurement and protection

Abstract

In this work, virtual instrumentation based learning methodology is presented for teaching measurement and protection in power systems courses at the Faculty of Electromechanical Engineering of the University of Colima, Mexico. The proposed methodology uses the project‐based learning method for developing experience learning. The students develop the hardware which can be used with the conventional machinery laboratory equipment and it considers the necessary security aspects to provide students with safe studying conditions by avoiding the risk of hazards. Through the use of low‐cost voltage and current sensors, the variables of interest of the equipment under measurement and protection are reduced to suitable values for the data acquisition system (DAQ). The voltage and current signals are processed using the LabVIEW® environment and the algorithms for power metering and the most common relays are developed. Acting signals coming from the DAQ are interfaced with the electrical machines by appropriate contactors and which simulates the power switchgear. The implemented hardware and the algorithms developed, allow students to measure the power consumption of conventional loads and to reproduce the most used relays by the electrical industry. This proposal represents an alternative to the high costs of didactic equipment. Finally, a survey provides a good insight of how the application of virtual instrumentation in the teaching process impacts the development of professional skills in the ambit of measurement and protection of power systems.

Development of a server‐based integrated virtual laboratory for digital electronics

“…increasing control and traceability, to support distance learning, improve laboratory accessibility for disadvantaged groups and to increase safety in terms of dangerous experiments internet and web-based systems have been developed [2,25].…”

Influence of the change of methodology in the practical laboratories of the power electronics subject

“…demonstrated the use of intuitive simulation environments to be useful tools to introduce complex Power Electronics concepts to undergraduate students, for example, time‐domain oscillatory modes [5]. Other novel approaches proven to improve the education on Electronics are the use of virtual instrumentation environments [3], and more modern approaches are introducing the use of Artificial Reality (AR) to this end [16].…”

Practical aspects of project-based learning in the study of the discipline “Developing information systems”

“…Project training is presented as one of the interactive pedagogical technologies aimed at implementing a personality-oriented approach to teaching methods [10] 8. Examples of the application of the design training method are given (for example, in the framework of the bachelor's degree in "Operation of transport-technological machines and complexes" [10], in the bachelor's programs in robotics profile [11], in the discipline "Computer technologies in documentation management "For the specialty" Management (by industry) " [1], in courses on power systems of the Faculty of Electromechanics at the University of Colima in Mexico [12]), as well as the experience and methodological basis for the use of project training (for example, at the Siberian Industrial University [13], in foreign practice [14]). Currently, there is not enough experience in the application of project-based instruction at Russian universities.…”