Rapid changes in technology sometimes make obsolete some of the more applied parts of an engineering curriculum, which are often the laboratories. This is particularly true of the automatic control systems laboratory because of its interdisciplinary nature. Advances in sensor technology, microprocessor technology, and the availability of new and more efficient actuators have had considerable influence on how machines, power plants, manufacturing processes, and automotive vehicles are controlled. Also, the increase in complexity of control systems requires both individual and team efforts. A challenge to educators in the control systems area is to prepare graduates who have excellent hands-on skills and team oriented interpersonal skills. The aim of this project is to provide engineering juniors and seniors with a laboratory environment where: (1) they have the opportunity to sharpen their hands-on skills by working with cost effective state-of-the-art equipment, and (2) they are required to work as a highly interactive team. The award will be used to purchase a variety of transducers, actuators, electromechanical breadboarding kits, and computer interfacing equipment. By working with electromechanical breadboarding kits the students can undertake innovative laboratory projects. The project provides a laboratory experience which fosters team effort and communication skills. It impacts about 90 students per year in electrical and mechanical engineering departments.
