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Session 2161

Introducing Feedback Control to First Year Engineering Students using LabVIEW

Samuel Daniels, Dave Harding, Mike Collura

School of Engineering & Applied Science University of New Haven

Abstract

This paper discusses the introduction of basic feedback control concepts and applications specifically selected for first year engineering & applied science students. These activities are introduced in the second half of a first semester class that is part of a sequence of first and second year courses used to develop a strong foundation for programs in various engineering disciplines. This sequence of courses uses a Multidisciplinary Engineering Foundation Spiral1 in the form of a four-semester sequence of engineering courses, matched closely with the development of students’ mathematical sophistication and analytical capabilities and integrated with coursework in the sciences.

Introduction

Feedback control is one of many common multidisciplinary areas covered by the new curriculum where engineering topics are presented in the spiral from five key areas or pillars: electrical circuits, thermodynamics/fluid mechanics, material balances, structural mechanics and systems. Unlike the traditional approach, each of the foundation courses includes a mix of these topics, presented in a variety of disciplinary contexts. A solid background is developed by touching key concepts at several points along the spiral in different courses, adding depth and sophistication at each pass. Each foundation course also stresses the development of several essential skills, such as problem-solving, oral and written communication, the design process, teamwork, project management, computer analysis methods, laboratory investigation, data analysis and model development. In addition to providing a broad engineering background, this sequence of multidisciplinary courses develops the foundation for building substantial depth in key areas of importance for engineering students.

The first semester freshman course that includes feedback control is EAS 109, “Project Planning and Development” (2 semester credits). This course focuses on the development of project management skills using project-based activities to excite and motivate freshman. This paper will present the feedback control projects tied to the development of good project development skills, and provide a review of the concepts introduced including proportional, integral & differential control. The course is broken down into two major projects during the semester. A

“Proceedings of the 2005 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2005, American Society for Engineering Education”

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Daniels, S., & Collura, M., & Harding, D. (2005, June), Introducing Feedback Control To First Year Engineering Students Using Labview Paper presented at 2005 Annual Conference, Portland, Oregon. 10.18260/1-2--14861