Abstract:

In response to the increasing demand for innovative teaching methods in engineering education, this study builds upon previous work conducted with Virtual Universe Pro [1], exploring the benefits of utilizing Cade-Simu and PC-Simu software [2] as simulation tools in automation and control courses.

Recent studies highlight the significance of digital twins in engineering education, showcasing their ability to offer realistic simulations of industrial systems and processes [3], [4], thereby enhancing student understanding of complex concepts. Cade-Simu and PC-Simu emerge as pivotal tools in implementing digital twins in engineering studies. Specifically, these programs are distinguished by their accessibility and educational focus, enabling the incorporation of simulation practices without requiring significant resources. This advantage is crucial for institutions with budgetary constraints, democratizing access to advanced simulation technologies. Furthermore, the flexibility of these programs allows for designing activities for various topics and levels of complexity, rendering them suitable for engineering courses at different stages.

This paper presents the outcomes of employing Cade-Simu and PC-Simu through various case studies developed in different degrees at the School of Industrial Engineering of the University of Extremadura. These examples have been used in both theoretical classes and laboratory practices. In addition, this study analyzes the results of surveys conducted among students who have utilized these simulation tools.

References:
[1] E. Pérez and P. Merchán, “OUTCOMES OF THE USE OF VIRTUAL UNIVERSE PRO AS A SUPPORT FOR TEACHING IN AUTOMATION: FIRST STEPS TOWARDS IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES,” Jul. 2023, pp. 7819–7825. doi: 10.21125/edulearn.2023.2032.
[2] “Cade Simu.” Accessed: Mar. 10, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://cade-simu.com/
[3] M. Maksimović and N. Davidović, “The role of Digital Twin technology in transforming engineering education,” in Proceedings TIE 2022, University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Technical Sciences Čačak, 2022, pp. 264–270. doi: 10.46793/TIE22.264M.
[4] O. Chamorro-Atalaya et al., “Use of Digital Twin Technology in the Teaching-Learning Process, in the field of University Education: A Bibliometric Review,” International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 313–329, Feb. 2024, doi: 10.26803/ijlter.23.2.15.

Keywords:

Digital twin, simulation, PC-Simu, CADE-Simu, Automation.