3D Visualization Methods in Online Control Experimentation

Classical teaching of control theory that is based on mathematical models can sometimes be quite difficult for students. Not everybody is able to understand physical meaning of differential equations immediately. The use of various visualizations can facilitate the process of learning. The paper describes the system that presents animations of mechatronic systems to students. They can be run in two modes - in open loop to follow the dynamical behavior of the system without the use of any controller and in closed loop that considers the basic PID controller. The aim is to show students the effect of the individual components of the controller, i.e. the effect of P, I and D part. The visualization is realized in two forms: first, we use 3D animation that is available as the web application and then we decided to use increasingly popular augmented reality. This kind of simulation is available via smartphones and it is based on Google Services for AR platform, built for augmented reality experience. Both types of visualizations will be illustrated on the model of towercopter that we have in our laboratory also as a real plant. Using the presented educational environment allows students to achieve first experience with the system, before they want to use a real device in laboratory. Copyright (C) 2020 The Authors.