Recently added articles from International Journal of Electrical Engineering Education:
A zero-cost, real-time, Windows signal laboratory
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract This paper introduces a Windows-based signal capture, display, and waveform synthesis package called 'Win-eLab'. The software is able to run on a conventional desktop or laptop with no additional hardware, and can perform real-time Fourier analysis on audio-frequency signals. This paper ...
Studying the effects of distributed generation on voltage regulation
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract The focus of this work is to introduce the power distribution community to the effects distributed generation has on distribution systems. Specifically, changes in the voltage profiles and operation of voltage regulation are studied. A distribution system model equipped with Line Drop ...
Three-phase transformer and voltage regulator modelling for forward/backward sweep-based distribution system power flow algorithms
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract This paper describes a new approach for modelling of a distribution transformer and automatic voltage regulator in forward/backward sweep-based algorithms for unbalanced radial distribution systems. For the transformer modelling a symmetrical components model is used and zero sequence ...
Feedback control of T-S fuzzy systems based on LTV system theory
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract Takage-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy systems are equivalent to linear time-varying (LTV) systems; the theory of LTV systems can therefore be used to design global feedback controllers to stabilise T-S fuzzy systems. In this paper, a T-S fuzzy system is first transformed into its canonical form in ...
Nonlinear PD regulation for ball and beam system
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract The ball and beam system is one of the most popular laboratory experiments for control education. There are two problems for ball and beam control: (1) many laboratories use simple controllers such as PD control, but theory analysis is based on linear models, and (2) nonlinear ...
Improving understanding of single phase transformer behaviour through a multimedia tool
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract Many civil engineering students may show little motivation for a course in electrical machinery, because they consider it unexciting and of little importance to their professional practice. Therefore, the use of interactive computer graphics and animations can be a complementary tool ...
Diode, thyristor and triac tests using PSpice and their integration into undergraduate power electronics courses
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract This paper describes PSpice implementation of three power electronic devices: diode, thyristor, and triac, performed to identify characteristic curve parameters. Development of these simulation models is used to support and enhance power electronics education at the undergraduate level ....
Review of soft-switching technologies for high-frequency switched-mode power conversion
Jan 01, 2009; ... Abstract Given the rising demand for increases in the switching frequency and efficiency of switched-mode power conversion, the introduction of an undergraduate/postgraduate course on Advanced Power Electronics is both timely and important, and new teaching materials must be designed. This paper ...
Editorial
Oct 01, 2008; ... In this last issue of 2008 and at the start of another busy academic year, we are delighted to welcome a new member of our editorial team. Professor Aimin Song, who specialises in nanoelectronics in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Manchester, takes on the ...
Learning to exploit tolerances: an undergraduate laboratory exercise in system design of an instrument
Oct 01, 2008; ... Abstract A laboratory exercise is described that introduces the engineering student to design to meet a customer specification. The student learns to appreciate the system-engineering nature of design, where multiple objectives need to be satisfied. The design vehicle is one of the most ...
Electrical measurements student laboratory - replacing hands-on with remote and virtual experiments
Oct 01, 2008; ... Abstract This paper discusses the problem of transferring knowledge to students of an undergraduate electrical measurement course, and also describes the design of a Web-based measurement laboratory and experimental setup of Web-based experiments at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and ...
Comparative experiences in remote automation laboratories with real plants
Oct 01, 2008; ... Abstract In recent years, there has been a significant increase in remote learning courses. In some disciplines, including PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) automation, doing laboratory practice 'at home' with all the required material is difficult. In these cases, the possibility of doing ...
Efficient minimisation of Boolean functions
Oct 01, 2008; ... Abstract Quine Mc Cluskey's (QM) method is a popular method for minimisation of Boolean functions. This method is widely taught at undergraduate level. In this paper simple modifications are suggested to make it more efficient. They allow us to avoid repetitions in the QM method. Further, a ...
Improved calculation of sag for a conductor supported at unequal heights
Oct 01, 2008; ... Abstract The sag of conductors of an overhead line is determined from the horizontal tension at the lowest point of the conductors. In a conductor supported at unequal heights the lowest point is calculated, together with the horizontal tension, from hyperbolic expressions using an iterative ...
A distribution automation system simulator for training and research
Oct 01, 2008; ... Abstract This paper presents the design and development of a scaled down physical model for power Distribution Automation (DA) system simulation. The developed DA system simulator is useful in providing hands-on experience to utility engineers/managers to familiarise themselves with the DA ...
Using PSpice for teaching output current control in d.c.-a.c. inverters to undergraduate students
Oct 01, 2008; ... Abstract In the present day technology of power semiconductor drives, d.c.-a.c. switch-mode voltage source inverters are widely used in a.c. motor servo drives. In these applications, the motor phase currents need to be controlled for high performance. Thus, the prime control issue is to obtain ...
An introduction to the design of filters and sinusoidal oscillators
Jul 01, 2008; ... Abstract After making a review of existing first-year laboratory work at Manchester Metropolitan University dealing with active filters, the authors describe an alternative set of first-year experiments which cover the three first-order filters whose transfer functions are controlled by a single ...
A modular, open-architecture d.c.-d.c. power conversion laboratory
Jul 01, 2008; ... Abstract Today's graduates are expected to have a mix of skills and be competent as technology specialists and system designers. Many undergraduate courses are reflecting these requirements by introducing an element of systems design into their programmes and individual modules. This paper ...
An arbitrary load torque generator for studying electric drives in a laboratory environment
Jul 01, 2008; ... Abstract This paper presents an arbitrary load torque generator for simulating real mechanical loads, such as fans, conveyors, compressors or winders, recently incorporated into the undergraduate electric machine courses at Cartagena Polytechnic University (Spain). The system has been built and ...
A systematic approach for phase-fault over-current protection coordination of complex networks
Jul 01, 2008; ... Abstract Over-current protection for phase faults is very common and protection schemes based on different types of relays are presented in the literature. Even though these published works present protection coordination of radial, parallel and ring feeders, a systematic approach to the ...