Design and Evaluation of a Remote-Access Laboratory for 3-Phase AC Motor Control Circuits using FluidSIM and IoT Interface
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21831/elinvo.v11i1.91324Keywords:
Remote-access laboratory, three-phase induction motor control, FluidSIM, MQTT, ESP32Abstract
This article presents the design and evaluation of a low-cost, scalable remote-access laboratory for industrial 3-phase AC motor control circuits, targeting vocational engineering education. The system integrates FluidSIM for circuit diagram design and simulation with an IoT hardware interface (Arduino-based OPC server, MQTT, ESP32, relays, and contactors) to enable remote control of physical motor setups. To enhance accessibility and reduce hardware costs, the Wokwi online simulator replaces the physical ESP32, enabling students to visualize OPC server and MQTT protocol simulations. Implemented control circuits include forward/reverse starting, star-delta reduced-voltage starting, and timer-based automation applications. The architecture, hardware/software implementation, and performance validation are detailed. Results confirm that students can successfully configure and operate motor experiments remotely, demonstrating flexible, interactive access to realistic control tasks. Positive student feedback indicates enhanced engagement and conceptual understanding of motor control principles. This work establishes a practical framework combining simulation, IoT, and remote hardware interaction for engineering education.
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