Virtual Training Simulator for Atomic Force Microscopy

Training novice users how to operate an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) is expensive due to the cost of equipment and the time required to train users in a hands-on learning environment. Training large groups of users simultaneously presents a problem because usually only one AFM is available for use. To alleviate this problem, a virtual training simulator for AFM training has been developed. The training simulator is a Windows-based software program designed to allow users to simulate basic AFM operation on a PC. Instructors can use this tool to demonstrate the exact same instruction that a user would receive in an AFM lab within the confines of a classroom or computer lab. The graphical user interface (GUI) of the simulator replicates the interface of one of the most popular commercial AFM models to aid learning transfer from the simulator to the actual AFM. The goal of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the work that has been completed towards creating this virtual training simulator. The virtual AFM simulator modeling, design, and implementation are described.Copyright © 2005 by ASME