A Matlab/Simulink-Based Interactive Module for Servo Systems Learning

• Published in: IEEE transactions on education Vol. 53; no. 2; pp. 265 - 271
• Main Author: Aliane, Nourdine
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York IEEE 01.05.2010; Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc; The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE)
• Subjects: Assessments; Class Activities; Computer Interfaces; Computer languages; Control engineering; Couplings; dc motor; DC motors; Education; Engineering Education; Foreign Countries; Interactive; interactive tools; Learning; Learning Modules; Load modeling; Man Machine Systems; Matlab; Matlab/Simulink; Modules; motion control; Robotics; servo systems; Servomechanisms; Servomotors; Spain; Students; Trajectory; Undergraduate Study; Spain
• ISSN: 0018-9359; 1557-9638
• DOI: 10.1109/TE.2009.2014468

This paper presents an interactive module for learning both the fundamental and practical issues of servo systems. This module, developed using Simulink in conjunction with the Matlab graphical user interface (Matlab-GUI) tool, is used to supplement conventional lectures in control engineering and robotics subjects. First, the paper introduces the theoretical background of servo systems. Then, the interactive module is presented, with a description of its main features as well some hints on how to integrate Simulink models within Matlab-GUI. Some of the module's capabilities are illustrated through classroom examples. Finally, the experience of putting this into use and student assessment of the tool are also addressed.