Design and application of a platform of wireless sensor and control network in robotics course of mechanical engineering technology

Zhou Zhang, Andy S. Zhang, Mingshao Zhang, Sven Esche

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Robotics is one form of interdisciplinary field which involves the tight integration of mechanical systems, electrical systems, computer systems, and information systems. However for students enrolled in the Engineering Technology programs, especially the Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) program to learn robotics, they are confronted with two difficulties: (1) limited number of fundamental robotics-related courses, (2) limited robotics course hours. In order to help the students of MET to overcome these two difficulties, a wireless sensor and control network (WSCN) platform is designed and employed. This platform has two advantages: affordable and foolproof. Therefore, students can avoid exposing themselves to complicated algorithms. They can focus on the applications of robotics to develop sophisticated projects. Before introducing WSCN,, the existing entry-level robotics course was redesigned based on the pre-class survey results and the assessment of the students' abilities. Subsequently, the students were instructed to familiarize themselves with the basic sensors and actuators, the Arduino development kit and the c-based programming. Then, the platform was implemented in the course. In addition, a series of homework and projects were assigned. Through these assignments, the students were able to design practical projects using the platform. It was proven that the platform enhanced the students' understanding of the fundamental concepts, inspired the students' interest in this course, and improved their performance in the robotics classes.

Original languageEnglish
JournalComputers in Education Journal
Volume10
Issue number1
StatePublished - 2019

Keywords

  • Education
  • MET
  • Robotics
  • WSCN

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Design and application of a platform of wireless sensor and control network in robotics course of mechanical engineering technology'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this