A Configuration Method of Remote-controlled Experimental Equipment using OpenPLC for Classroom Demonstration in Electrical Machinery Courses

In recent years, energy management has been required to achieve carbon neutrality and to address energy issues. Since electric energy management requires knowledge of electrical machinery, engineers in this field are expected to be developed. On the other hand, in situ experiments are effective in verifying the knowledge learned in class in engineering studies. However, electrical machinery is large and heavy, which makes it difficult to carry it into the classroom for in situ experiments. In this study, remote-control experimental equipment are developed that can remotely operate electrical machinery in the laboratory and verify its behavior in the classroom. The two developed remote-control experimental equipment are for speed control of DC motors and no-load testing of three-phase synchronous generators. This remote-controlled experimental equipment are suitable for observing the behavior of the machines in class because the experiments are carried out automatically and in a short time by OpenPLC. A questionnaire survey on the developed remote-controlled experimental equipment confirmed its potential to improve students' interest in learning and their level of understanding.