Experiential Learning in Chemical Engineering Through Integration of 360° VR Tours, Open-Source Based Simulation and Multimedia Assets (v. 1.1 - June 20, 2023)

Abstract

Distillation columns, particularly pilot-scale or industrial units, represent a quintessential application of core chemical engineering concepts and equipment design, and are a cornerstone of the training of undergraduate students and professionals. The pedagogical effort of this virtual learning resource bridges the equipment, control, and operation of a pilot-scale distillation column with all the theoretical elements, including theories for performance measurement and evaluation, process simulations, and column design and optimization. The integrated exploration of this real-world process in a virtual laboratory setting is structured to support efficient, student-oriented, and design-centric learning for students to acquire knowledge and practical skills of integrated systems and develop cognitive ability for problem solving. Specifically, the resource comprises the following key elements:

· A 360° virtual reality (VR) tour of a pilot-scale distillation column with the industry-standard design and process control in addition to enhanced process visualization.

· Dedicated videos and theoretical components highlighting the connection between the underlying theories, equipment design, and observable operation phenomena.

· Process fundamentals based on real physical processes and rigorous mathematical models describing their applications to distillation performance analyses, operation safety, experimental design, and design and optimization.

· Dedicated simulation modules that serve as high-fidelity process simulators and simulation-based design for different design methodologies.

Overall, the systematic organization of the contents in the 360° VR resource is purported to support engineering students primarily for deep laboratory learning of chemical engineering concepts and process design through an integration of the 360° VR tour of a modern pilot distillation plant, multimedia, and high-fidelity process simulation. The resource is suitable for teaching and learning at all academic levels, and more effective for use in a collaborative learning setting and/or in conjunction with physical distillation laboratory.