Wine Production through Virtual Environments with a Focus on the Teaching–Learning Process

Abstract

This paper focuses on the application of the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) technique in the winemaking process. The HIL technique provides an effective methodology to test and verify the automatic control of industrial processes in 3D laboratory environments. Two parts are considered: (i) software, which consists of the virtualization of the wine process in order to generate a realistic work environment that allows the student to manipulate the system while visualizing the changes in the process; and (ii) hardware, through which the process control is implemented in ladder language in a PLC S7 1200 AC/DC/RLY (programmable logic controller). Bidirectional Ethernet TCP/IP communication is established, achieving a client–server architecture. This article highlights the main advantages of the HIL technique, such as its ability to simulate complex and extreme scenarios that would be difficult or expensive to recreate in a real environment. In addition, real-time testing of the hardware and software to implement the control system is performed, allowing for fast and accurate responses. Finally, a usability table is obtained that demonstrates the benefits of performing industrial process control work in virtual work environments, focusing the development on meaningful learning processes for engineering students.

Interactive Teaching in Virtual Environments: Integrating Hardware in the Loop in a Brewing Process

“…In addition, virtual environments are critical for the education and training of workers in the new era of Industry 4.0, providing a safe space to acquire skills in technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Advanced Automation (AA) [11][12][13][14]. Ultimately, virtual environments are a cornerstone in the successful adoption of Industry 4.0 by driving innovation, efficiency, and workforce readiness for the challenges of modern industry [15,16].…”

“…For this reason, the implementation of VR and AR environments is emerging as a pedagogical approach that promises to revolutionize the way students acquire and apply technical knowledge and practical skills [17][18][19]. VR and AR have experienced significant advances in terms of hardware and software in recent years, enabling the creation of immersive and highly interactive learning environments [15,20]. These environments offer students the opportunity to experience and explore automation concepts in a virtual space that simulates real-world situations, providing a learning experience that transcends the limitations of traditional methods.…”