posted on 2006-05-05, 10:27authored byKai-hing Yeung, Shiu-cheung Chow
Control technology is a compulsory module for all design and technology student- teachers at the Hong Kong Institute of Education. During the class, student-teachers make use of the Microelectronics For All (MFA) Computer Module to assess eight digital input and output lines. The majority of school control languages are based on LOGO and BASIC, and although they are useful for developing mathematical concepts and teaching accepted programming techniques, their applications for real-time processing is limited. The very nature of these languages restricts them to sequential rather than multi-tasking events.
This paper explores an alternate approach which employs simulation to real-life industrial production equipment in learning control technology. The rationale for using a Statement List, which is a form of control language will be firstly discussed. Secondly, the features of Modular Production System (MPS) will be introduced. Thirdly, the development, design and implementation of a processing station using MPS will be described. Finally, concluding remarks will be presented on the benefits and limitations of using such an approach in a teacher training context.
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Design
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IDATER Archive
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Citation
YEUNG and CHOW, 1998. The modular production system (MPS): an alternate approach for control technology in design and technology. IDATER 1998 Conference, Loughborough: Loughborough University