Improving learning experiences using LEGO Mindstorms EV3 robots in control systems course

Abstract

This paper integrates LEGO Mindstorms EV3 robots into undergraduate control systems course to improve students’ learning experiences using Matlab as a development tool. This platform facilitates the students throughout teaching the course in learning the essential concepts of control systems such as modeling, stability analysis, and skill of designing controllers for the dynamic systems. The participants of the course identify the transfer function of the robot and compare it with the transfer function developed by using laws of physics. The students, then compare the identified model with the mathematical model by using stability analysis techniques, finding out that the stability range is much smaller for the experimental model than the mathematical model. After that, several types of controllers are designed and tested on the experimental model and EV3 robots, which demonstrates that there exists discrepancies between conceptual and practical designs. Finally, a comparison of students’ apprehension of a set of capabilities before and after taking the course shows the value of using EV3 robots on improving students’ learning experiences of control systems course.