Portable controls experiments

Abstract

Experiments for controls classes like MIT's 2.004 require large lab setups and expensive equipment such as oscilloscopes and function generators. We developed a series of controls experiments based on National Instruments' myDAQ platform. These experiments, which are small enough to fit on a single PCB board and weigh less than a pound, allow students to work on controls labs at their own pace wherever they please, increasing the ease of learning. We designed and prototyped a double integrator experiment and a DC motor experiment. We implemented the control software in NI LabView, and we have produced accompanying documentation. We will make the circuit layouts, controller software, and lab documentation available to the public through the NI myDAQ website. Other schools will be able to use our designs in their courses.