Design of Problem Solving Environment for Automated System Integration Education

Research suggests that realistic practice using authentic learning environments leads to better transfer of skills. Based upon input from industry engineers with expertise in designing and building automated systems, a problem solving environment (PSE) for automated system design has been developed. The PSE provides a virtual environment for building, testing, and validating designs for a process to be automated. This virtual environment allows students to design systems to automate manufacturing processes. Students may build systems to automate either a single type of process (continuous, discrete, or batch) or a combination of processes (hybrid). The user is presented a toolbox containing equipment and building blocks of automation such as sensors and actuators. The PSE supports students in design problem-solving activities such as (1) reviewing the problem, (2) understanding the process to be automated, (3) line balancing, (4) layout, (5) simulation, and (6) cost analysis. This paper will describe the design of the PSE. Future plans include conducting evaluations with students and adding student modeling to provide adaptive support for students.