Remote Hardware Controlled Experiment Virtual Laboratory for Undergraduate Teaching in Power Electronics

• Main Authors: Ka Wai Eric Cheng, Chung Lun Chan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2019-08-01
• Series: Education Sciences
• Subjects: power electronics; virtual laboratory; distance interactive learning; web-based education
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7102/9/3/222

A remote-controlled experiment for power electronics was developed for a virtual laboratory. Power converter experiments were set up, allowing students to conduct a remote-controlled experiment with special hardware and electric power. Students can activate parameter controls, connect wires, and tune electric load conditions with preset electronic laboratory instruction. Waveforms and experimental voltage and currents are measured, and the results can be delivered to users via the internet. The virtual laboratory features lecture notes and other computer simulations to improve learning. The development was used in a class of a power electronics course, in which students participated in a trial of the virtual experiment. The feedback from the students was very positive, and it was observed that students displayed better time management and improved learning and understanding of laboratory procedure as compared to a conventional laboratory class.