Role of Remote Laboratories Jim Henry, Ph.D., P.E. College of Engineering and Computer Science University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Role of Remote Laboratories Jim Henry, Ph.D., P.E. College of Engineering and Computer Science University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Remote experiments can be used to enhance the learning experience Conclusions Remote experiments can be used to enhance the learning experience Some limitations and disadvantages as compared to high fidelity simulation Hands-on experimental demonstrations are beneficial to students

Roles of Remote Laboratories Local Experiments Modeling & Simulation Remote Experiments

Controls systems Local Experiments Modeling & Simulation + “Hands on” + Watchable in small groups + Multi sensory ± Control Panel UI + Known data rate - Time Constrained - Location Constrained - Personnel Constrained Modeling & Simulation + Time Freedom + Location Freedom ± Computer mediated sensation ± MATLAB UI ± Simulink UI ± Control Station UI ± Excel UI Local Experiments Remote Experiments + Time Freedom + Location Freedom ± Computer mediated sensation ± Simulink UI ± Control Station-like UI + Watchable in disperse groups + Known or stochastic data rate - Coordination Constrained Controls systems Remote Experiments

Roles of Remote Laboratories Controls systems station – Temperature control

Implementation Details Distant Site  UT-Chattanooga

Describe something you like about operating experiments remotely- “They allowed me to understand concepts as they are applied.” “It is impressive to thing that such a small operation results in a change in a large system quite some distance away.” “It is interesting to be able to control something miles away with a computer.”

Describe something you like about operating experiments remotely- “Shows how the math relates to real-life problems.” “It was interesting to see different schools using the same heat exchanger.” “It did not take all day to complete.” “USC does not have to buy it, keeps tuition low.” “Not limited to only what USC has.”

Describe some disadvantages of operating experiments remotely- “The experiments were sometimes interrupted by malfunction in the computer system.” “You don’t see the actual results of the input. It would be nice to see the system we are working with.” “Cannot see the experiment.”

Describe some disadvantages of operating experiments remotely- “Harder to understand because cannot see physical experiment.” “Not hands on, just collecting data.” “Can’t see the process, cant see valves / tanks.”

Conclusions Hands-on experimental demonstrations are beneficial to students Remote experiments can be used to enhance the learning experience Some limitations and disadvantages as compared to high fidelity simulation

Web Sites http://chem.engr.utc.edu/ Labs

Acknowledgements Tennessee Taxpayers National Science Foundation UTC's Center for Excellence in Computer Applications National Instruments Microsoft Corporation