Department of Informatics/ Automatic, Robotics and Mechatronics research group

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Virtual and Remote Labs

Virtual Laboratory for Control Education Using a Solar Collector Field System

This is a Virtual Lab designed to teach foundational and advanced concepts in process control. The VL uses a Solar Collector Field (SCF) system as a case study to integrate key topics in control engineering subjects, such as system modeling, PID control, predictive control, feedforward strategies, and nonlinear control approaches. The proposed system is versatile, which enriches the student experience through widely customizable and realistic simulations. The simulated system, characterized by nonlinear dynamics, time delays, and solar irradiance disturbances, offers students a hands-on learning environment for control system design and analysis. Built using the Easy JavaScript Simulation platform, the SCF VL features an intuitive interface that enhances student engagement. The SCF VL, freely accessible online and on any device (computer, tablet, or smart- phone), is a versatile resource for promoting deep understanding and practical skills in control engineering education.

• Online web-based application

• Download virtual lab

• Download handbook for the virtual lab

Citation: Pataro, I., Gil, J. D., Guzman, J. L., & Berenguel, M. (2025). A Virtual Lab for Control Education Using a Solar Collector Field System (1.0). Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14837831

Contact data

Prof. José Luis Guzmán

Department of Informatics

System Engineering and Automatics area

Address:

Ctra. Sacramento s/n
04120, Almería

Building CITE III, Planta: 2, Office: 2.16.3
Phone: +34 950 21 4133
e-mail:
joguzman@ ual.es joseluis.guzman@ ual.es