Usage of Virtual Production System to Enhance Students Applied Learning on PLC Programming for Virtual Testing and Commissioning
Grant Name
Applied Learning and Innovation Grant (ALIGN)Abstract
This project aims to develop a virtual and interactive production system which enables students to test automation control logic and PLC code in an immersive learning environment remotely before physical testing on the real equipment in the laboratory.
By simulating and validating the automation system virtually and remotely, students can confirm their codes will work as expected in the physical production. With this virtual production system, the training on PLC will not be limited by equipment, lab space, time scheduling, staff supervision, and students can initiate infinite self-learning in an absolute safe environment. What is more, this learning experience will also benefit students in the aspects that, they will pick up skills of virtual commissioning, virtual testing and virtual troubleshooting for factory production equipment, while all these skills are increasingly needed as most of the industries are adopting remote and WFH work mode in view of the global pandemic situation. Additionally, students can also use the virtual production system to gain the skills and knowledge advocated in today’s industry 4.0 revolution, such as digital twin, industry internet of things (IIOT), smart machine, etc. Lastly, the developed virtual production system can also be used as backup system during extreme situations such as lab access is prohibited, or the physical equipment is down.
Click here to view the project closing report (For SIT Staff only)