Purpose

      Previously Mechanical Engineering students were limited to simple charts and graphs to analyze a dynamic system, but now it is possible to use low investment 3D software as a modeling tool.  To this effect, we are using the RoboWorks 3D modeling and simulation software to create simple 3D simulations that can augment teaching material, homework and projects in various engineering classes.  These simulations will help students better understand dynamics of physical systems. 

     The courses ME 372J (Robotics and Automation) and ME 384R (Geometry of Mechanisms and Robots) are the starting point for this study.  The emphasis on kinematics in these courses makes them ideal for Roboworks.  Simulations can be used to verify that calculated kinematics and path planning of a dynamic system are correct.  Working with faculty, simulations have been setup to augment current assignments.  

      Using evaluations from students and instructors in these courses the applicability of 3D simulation to improve engineering education will be determined.