A compact and modular remote access platform for enhanced practical education in power electronics, machines, and drives

This paper presents a novel, scalable, and cost-effective remote access platform that enhances practical Power Electronics, Machines, and Drives (PEMD) education. The proposed solution addresses the limitations of traditional PEMD training systems and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has accelerated the need for accessible and effective remote learning tools. The platform enables learners to gain practical experience by providing access to physical PEMD hardware in real-time through a user-friendly and adaptable interface, offering a seamless and effective remote learning experience that closely replicates in-person, hands-on laboratory activities. The key innovations of the proposed platform include a scalable architecture that accommodates increasing numbers of users without compromising performance or incurring significant infrastructure costs, achieved through the use of serverless technologies and peer-to-peer communication between the user and the laboratory hardware. The latter is a feature currently not available in existing offerings for remote learning via online platforms. Additionally, the platform features a modular and compact hardware design that reduces the cost and space requirements of PEMD training systems, making them more accessible to a wider range of educational institutions and learners. Further, the platform's flexible software architecture allows for the customisation of communication protocols and user interfaces.