Simulation Games in Engineering Education: A State-of-the-Art Review

Globalization and advances in information technology has prompted a need to change traditional lecture based passive learning methodology to an active multi-sensory experiential learning methodology. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of extant applications of simulation games in engineering education. It was concluded that proper application of simulation games in engineering education will maximize the student’s transferability of academic knowledge to the industry.
Reference: Journal of Computer Applications in Engineering Education, Volume 19, Issue 3, pages 399–410, September 2011. DOI: 10.1002/cae.20323. 
Authors: Amit Deshpande, Dr. Sam Huang

When to use displacement, velocity or acceleration amplitude units in vibration analysis?

A novice vibration analyst always has a question whether to use displacement, velocity or acceleration amplitude unit? Here is a rule of thumb based on the frequency.
Displacement is a good measure at lower frequencies especially less than 5 Hz. The failure mode is generally the “stress” causing due to the displacement. Velocity measures how often the displacement is being applied in a given time period. It is related to the fatigue mode of failure. Velocity amplitude unit is a good measure in the range of 5-2000 Hz frequency. Even at small displacement amplitude the repeated motion can cause fatigue failure. Above the 2000 Hz the failure is normally force related. Acceleration is measure of the likelihood of force being the mode of failure.

There are areas on chart where stress, fatigue and force related failures overlap. The proper selection of amplitude unit will depend upon the application under study. Note that frequency, displacement, velocity and acceleration are related. Knowing any 2 quantities, other variables can be easily calculated.

Picture reference: www.vibrationschool.com

Open Source Manufacturing

The open source software community has grown exponentially over the past several years, and it continues to do so along with expanding to previously closed source territory. More and more processes once run by closed source software are moving in the direction of open source software to take advantage of the reliability, accessibility and lower cost. One very well known open source software bundle is the LAMP stack for building software applications. Each portion (L-Linux, A-Apache, M-MySQL, P-PHP) is open source and free for anyone to obtain, and more and more companies are using it as a medium for creating software applications. However the manufacturing community has failed to embrace these changes and lower the costs associated with manufacturing information technology. Manufacturing continues to remain closed source, proprietary and non-scalable.
In this effect, we demonstrate the manufacturing open source stack ULMF (U-Ubuntu, L –LinuxCNC, M-MTConnect, F-Firefox) to create an open source bundle for use in the manufacturing world. ULMF is developed as part of the supervisory system thrust area for the Smart Machine Platform Initiative (SMPI). The supervisory system is defined as a system that integrates and coordinates multiple process monitoring and control modules such that a globally optimal machining solution could be delivered real-time for desired quality and maximum productivity.In this paper, we will lay out the methods to use open source applications to create a functional CNC control that is capable of obtaining and displaying data using Ubuntu operating system, LinuxCNC-EMC (Enhanced Machine Controller), MTConnect and Firefox internet browser. MTConnect is a royalty-free open communication standard for interconnect ability in the manufacturing arena. The free and open standard allows devices and systems to send out understandable information in the required format. Architecture of the ULMF stack and MTConnect standard is explained in depth. This paper explains why an open source bundle is important to the manufacturing community as well as the potential ramifications of using open source to apply to manufacturing data management solutions. The potential benefits include knowledge management, real-time data access, scalability, plug-and-play functionality and data mining capabilities.

Reference: Open Source Manufacturing, 2009 conference of the Society For Machinery Failure Prevention Technology, Dayton, Ohio, 28-30 April 2009.
Authors: Pierce Kuhnell, Amit Deshpande

MTConnect - Directory of Resources

The first directory of resources is released. It is a listing of companies working to provide MTConnect offerings and services.

Hardware
Assembly and Test Worldwide
Bosch Rexroth Corporation
GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms
MAG Industrial Automation Systems, MAG Cincinnati
Mazak Corporation
Parlec, Inc.

Software Applications
Bosch Rexroth Corporation
GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
MAG Industrial Automation Systems, MAG Cincinnati
Mazak Corporation
Parlec, Inc.
TechSolve, Inc.

Development Tools
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
TechSolve, Inc.
Consulting Services
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
TechSolve, Inc.

Training
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
TechSolve, Inc.

Simulation Games # 4: Problem-based Learning and Simulation Games

Simulation game based learning is an extension of the problem-based learning paradigm, having all its inherent characteristics plus some additional advantages. Simulation game and problem based learning are both experiential, collaborative, active learning and learner centric approaches. In simulation game, the instructor is a facilitator of learning process and students have the responsibility of learning as in problem-based learning. In problem-based learning, a self-assessment is conducted at the end of the problem or the learning cycle. On the other hand, simulation game has a scoring system that is the indication of one’s performance. Students are motivated to maximize their score by trying alternative strategies and read more literature. This is a significant advantage over problem-based learning. Secondly, simulation games are online computer based where student can learn as per his or her time at any place where there is an internet connection. Some studies have found that engineers are visual learners. Advanced graphics and multimedia may be used to capture the student’s attention. This observation calls for extensive use of simulation games especially in the light of decreasing computer technology cost and increasing speeds. Thirdly, some sort of online help is provided in simulation games. Thus, a student does not have to wait for the instructor to address the difficulty. Last and the most important advantage with simulation games is that they can save a lot of clerical work for students. The student can try out various strategies and alternatives and focus on the parameter of interest leaving the calculation and presentation work for the software. It is a more systematic and organized way of learning.

Enhance your assets

I came across this interesting study in Harvard Business Review which shows that companies which invest more in their employee do better in business. The article states that layoff and wage cut is a short term solution for cost cutting. It’s more like a desperate effort to keep oneself afloat. In the long term it is the employees which are the most valuable assets for the company. Motivated employees are much more efficient than the 8-hour wage workers. Companies should realize that employees are its assets and not liabilities. Actually these human assets don’t have depreciation as in the fixed assets. As these assets grow the business grows, the company grows. Click here to access the article.

Using a Single Tool to Accomplish Multiple Processes

Reducing inventory and managing multiple operations is key factor in today’s competitive manufacturing world. Fox and Turner describe the application of face milling to eliminate the traditional method of drilling and boring. Using interpolation a face mill can be effectively used to drill holes. Thanks to the advancement in the computer technology to manage all the complex calculations for the helical interpolation. This operation is suitable if the surface finish requirements are not better than 125 Ra and tolerances not tighter than 0.002 inches. Also the method is cost effective for holes which are larger than 6 inches in diameter. Fox also describes the difference between drilling with an end mill versus a face mill and limitations of using a face mill in extremely large diameter holes and tight tolerance parts. Complete article can be accessed here.

Tool Assembly Prognostics

It is well-established that unbalance in tool assembly causes excessive loads on spindle bearings and tool wear and increased vibration levels. However, in the days where high-speed machining (HSM) has become a common practice in the manufacturing industry, methodologies to measure tool assembly unbalance are not developed. In HSM the effects are worse, as the unbalance force is directly proportional to square of the spindle speed. Common practice in industry is to balance the tool assembly either with in-house balancing machines or use third-party balancing services after every batch cycle.
This paper describes a data-driven methodology that detects the presence of unbalance in a tool assembly relative to the tools with known balance levels. The unbalance detection prognostic application developed as part of the Smart Machine Platform Initiative (SMPI) checks for the threshold unbalance level in the tool assembly for the given machining requirements before the start of any run. This approach uses statistical tools and a supervised learning algorithm based on the Watchdog Agent® toolbox developed by the Center for Intelligent Maintenance Systems. The proposed research finds high applicability in high-precision manufacturing operations involving high-volume production.

Reference: Smart Machine Health and Maintenance: Tool Assembly Prognostics, The International Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference, Evanston, IL, October 2008
Authors: Edzel Lapira, Amit Deshpande, Dr. Jay Lee and Dr. John Snyder

Monitor and predict catastrophic failures

Please plan to attend the IMTS 2008 Manufacturing Business & Technology Forum. I will be discussing the business value of standardized data access in the required format for CBM applications running on legacy equipment. Implementation of open source standards like MTConnect has myriad benefits for the manufacturing industry. The implementation of MTConnect complaint CBM application has not only enabled granular data access but also enhanced the scalability and plug-and-play functionality of the system. The application can be easily modified to monitor additional data parameters as and when needed. Registration information for the conference is available here. You can also catch me at the emerging technology center for the live demo of the smart machine technologies.

Innovator/Achiever

The VALS model was developed by SRI international. The original model was revised as VALS 2 in 1989. The basic assumption is consumer behavior can be predicted from the consumer psychology. The marketing tool is used extensively for product launched, better marketing efforts and studying the target segment in a better fashion. To take the VALS (Values and Lifestyles) survey click here. The model classifies a customer in 8 different categories. The survey needs information pertaining to age, sex and gross income and list of questions. The survey should not take more than 10 minutes.

The VALS2 survey classified me as Innovator (primary characteristic) and Achiever (secondary characteristic). According to the model being an Innovator I am primarily motivated by ideals and achievements and self-expression.

MTConnect Live

The MTConnect EMC2 Linux CNC simulator is now available online at http://agent.mtconnect.org/probe. One can test and play with the protocol, understand the XML schema and also use it as a testing source for building custom client applications. Current versions of EMC are entirely licensed under the GNU General Public License and Lesser GNU General Public License (GPL and LGPL). Both the LinuxCNC and EMC are non commercial efforts.

The agent is running in a continual spiral program that automatically restarts after 30 second pause. The output of the adapter can be tested using telnet at agent.mtconnect.org (port 7878). To get a sample of monitored parameters visit: http://agent.mtconnect.org/sample. To get current values of the monitored parameters visit: http://agent.mtconnect.org/current.

MTConnect Software Developer Kit Workshops

Learn how to build an adapter for MTConnect at the SDK Workshop. The workshop will be held at TechSolve, Inc. Cincinnati on June 12-13, 2008. To effectively participate in the hands-on development exercises-

*Each participant should bring their own laptop with WIFI capability and standard installation of Windows 2000, XP or Vista. Laptop should be loaded with-

*IE 6.0 or later, of Firefox Version 2.0 or later

*Microsoft.NET Version 3.5 (free download from Microsoft website)

*Visual Studio 2005 or later

*Review of the draft MTConnect Version 0.9.9 standard

Knowledge-based Systems

Last week I delivered a presentation on the knowledge-based supervisory system at the Society for Machinery Failure Prevention Technology 62^nd conference. The presentation was accompanied with a live demonstration of the knowledge based system and also MTConnect standard. The presentation covered the concept of multiple process module monitoring and control which enables vertical integration in the machine domain. Technically it is defined as the “A system that integrates and coordinates multiple process monitoring and control modules such that a globally optimal machining solution could be delivered real-time for desired quality and maximum productivity”.

The presentation is available as a PDF file. The complete article can be found here.

Linux Kernel Development Statistics

Linux is undoubtedly the largest and the most vibrant open source project till date. The following statistics from the Linux Kernel Development article quantify this massive effort.

*Around 3,621 lines were added, 1,550 lines were removed, and 1,425 lines were changed every day for the past 2.5 years

*A small number of companies (like Novell, Redhat) are responsible for a large number of changes. But there is a "long tail" of companies which have made significant changes.

*There is a new Linux kernel release every 2.7 months.

*The top 10 individual developers have contributed almost 15 % of the changes and the top 30 developers have contributed 30 %. Thus there are few developers who contribute a lot and lots of developers which contribute a few. There is a marked inequality of work.

* 70% of the kernel development is done by developers who are being paid by the companies for their work.

* Individual development community has doubled in the last 3 years.

Commercial Organizations Involved

Washington Redskins cheerleaders for Indian Cricket. That's serious commercialization.

The Washington Redskins Cheerleaders will travel to India, under the aegis of Kingfisher moghul Vijay Mallya, to create the first ever professional cheerleading squad in India.
Click here for the complete article.

Cricket hits Internet in the West! Good step towards commercialization

Communicate.com Inc. dba Live Current Media Inc. (OTCBB: CMNN), a media company built around content and commerce destinations, announced that it will launch IPLT20.com tomorrow as the official site for the DLF Indian Premier League. As outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Live Current will become the exclusive online provider of content from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the DLF Indian Premier League. This signifies the first cricket-related content and distribution relationship by Live Current as the Company plans to build and launch its Cricket.com asset as the future cricket DestinationHub™ for cricket fans globally. Click here for the complete story.

Also featured on TechCrunch and VentureBeat.

I am Creative!

As a HR department requirement I took the DISC profile questionnaire. DISC stands for: D – Dominance; I – Influence; S – Steadiness; C – Conscientious. I scored the highest on the 'D' dimension. My DISC profile matched with the "Creative" personality template.

I was a bit skeptic about such a theory/activity however after reading the DISC report I was amazed. The profile closely described my characteristics and behavior. The report described my work habits, motivation and gave some insights about me to the supervisors/boss. Thinking introspectively I think the model described 'me' perfectly (and also some of my weak areas). Take the DISC profile questionnaire if you are wondering about your qualities, work habits, strengths, weaknesses and capabilities. It really helps! Also let me know if your profile matched mine. May be its worthwhile to know each other and share experiences.

Introduction to Principal Component Analysis

Recently I delivered a seminar on Principal Component Analysis at University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati. Presentation is available as a PDF file. The PCA method is explained with a simple example wherein the Graduate Office has to admit 2 students out of 4 applications received based on three dimensions i.e. GRE score, GPA and the Professor Rating. Principal Component Analysis or simply PCA is a data dimension reduction technique popularly used in case of a multidimensional data. It calculates the principal components which are linear combinations of the observations in the direction of maximum variance.

Open Source Projects double every 14 months!

Based on the models developed for the "Exponential Growth of Open Source" study we calculated the time required to double the number of projects and the total open source code. It took approximately 13.89 months to double the total number of open source projects from 1995-2006. Please refer the "The Total Growth of Open Source" paper for the details of the approach and analysis. On the same lines, it took around 12.49 months to double the total open source lines of code for the projects considered. That means every year (plus a month or so) both the total number of projects and lines of code double! The interesting question is: Can Open Source sustain this exponential growth?

Tool Condition Monitoring and Metrology Demonstrations

Date: April 8, 2008

Time: 8:30 AM-10:30 AM; 11:00 AM-1:00 PM; 1:30 PM-3:30 PM

Tool Conditioning Monitoring: Tool Condition Monitoring helps you save tooling, reduce your scrap and machine downtimes. Typical savings varies between 10% and 40% reduction in costs

Machine Tool Metrology: Machine Tool Metrology will help to identify and correct geometric and dynamic errors in the machine tools.

The session will incorporate live demonstrations of the technologies on the smart machine test bed. These two-hour sessions at TechSolve, Cincinnati are open to any executive, but each session is limited to 15 attendees. There is no fee for this event, but pre-registration is required.

Degradation Rate Modeling of Ohio State Bridges

The Ohio Department of Transportation Bridge Management System (BMS) currently uses Organizational Performance Indices (OPI) to track bridge performance each year. Currently, ODOT makes decisions based on four OPI ratings. The goal is to keep bridge deficiency levels below specified levels for OPI ratings, on which the bridge performance is evaluated. First, the historical data from disparate sources is extracted, cleaned and transformed taking into consideration data quality issues. A suitable schema is implemented to construct a data warehouse. Secondly, a stochastic Markov chain model is built to study the effect of geographical location, bridge type material and age on the degradation rate of over 45,000 bridges. The results give an insight into bridge performance issues, ability to study bridge performance with time and degradation rates. Bridges in northern and southern districts and bridges with concrete and steel material have different degradation rates. Three age groups of new, middle and old aged bridges exhibit different degradation rates (three piece-wise stationary) indicating age is an important factor that affects degradation. The bridge prediction and performance model developed will facilitate inspection scheduling, cost analysis and budget optimization. This will aid in management and decision making activities.

Author: Nirupama Zambre

Complete article available as a PDF file.

Smart Machine Supervisory System: Concept, Definition and Application

In today’s competitive world, manufacturers have realized that they need to embrace automation as their mantra to success. However, the impact of automation primarily concerns with the effectiveness of process monitoring and control systems. There is a need for a closed loop supervisory system, which integrates and coordinates individual process modules for real-time adjustment, conflict resolution and priority assignment. Monitoring and control of multiple process modules will result in higher productivity, better quality and prognostics for near-zero breakdown performance.
In this paper, we define the supervisory system as open architecture system that integrates and coordinates individual process monitoring and control modules such that a real-time globally optimal machining solution is delivered for maximum productivity. The Smart Machine Platform Initiative (SMPI) is currently being managed by TechSolve in support with Coalition on Manufacturing Technology Infrastructure. SMPI efforts at TechSolve concentrate on six thrust areas including the supervisory system. We then proceed to explain the technical and functional requirements, benefits and architectural details with emphasis on the knowledge system. A prototype supervisory system application is explained with objectives, setup, technologies identified and results.
We conclude with further insights into issues and implications for successful realization of a smart machine supervisory system.

Reference: Smart Machine Supervisory System: Concept, Definition and Application, Atluru S, Deshpande A. Proceedings of 62nd MFPT conference, May 6-8, 2008, Virginia Beach, VA

Exponential Growth of Open Source

Software development is undergoing a major change away from a fully closed software process towards a process that incorporates open source software in products and services. Just how significant is that change? To answer this question we need to look at the overall growth of open source as well as its growth rate. In this paper, we quantitatively analyze the growth of more than 5000 active and popular open source software projects. We show that the total amount of source code as well as the total number of open source projects is growing at an exponential rate. Previous research showed linear and quadratic growth in lines of source code of individual open source projects. Our work shows that open source is expanding into new domains and applications at an exponential rate.

Authors: Amit Deshpande, Dirk Riehle

Reference: The Total Growth of Open Source; Deshpande A., Riehle D.; The Fourth International Conference on Open Source Systems, Sep 2008, Milan, Italy.

Continuous Integration in Open Source Software Development

Commercial software firms are increasingly using and contributing to open source software. Thus, they need to understand and work with open source software development processes. This paper investigates whether the practice of continuous integration of agile software development methods has had an impact on open source software projects. Using fine-granular data from more than 5000 active open source software projects we analyze the size of code contributions over a project’s life-span. Code contribution size has stayed flat. We interpret this to mean that open source software development has not changed its code integration practices. In particular, within the limits of this study, we claim that the practice of continuous integration has not yet significantly influenced the behavior of open source software developers.

Reference: Continuous Integration in Open Source Software Development; Deshpande A., Riehle D.; IFIP International Federation for Information Processing, 2008, Volume 275/2008, 273-280, DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-09684-1_23

First Look IE 8

For a past three days I am using evaluating the new Internet Explorer 8 Beta 1 version. The first thing you will notice is that the domain highlight feature in IE 8. The exact domain name is highlighted excluding the other address parameters.

IE 8 comes with many other features for web developers and web designers. The ‘Activities’ allow you to map an address on webpage directly to Yahoo or MSN (not Google) maps. The map opens up in small interactive window without forcing the user to leave the current window. Other useful Activities currently supported include eBay product search, Facebook and StumbleUpon. The Webslices, developer tools and Ajax features empower the user to use the web in better and intelligent way. Check out the Ajax navigation features which stores the browser state using Ajax (especially useful when browsing a map). The developer tools allow the easy debugging of the applications within the IE eliminating the need to download auxiliary applications.

Yahoo mail is still not compatible with IE8. I had to switch back to mail Classic to access my email. Also my iGoogle personal homepage also gave some error with IE 8. However this should be temporary and resolved shortly. Anyway I will better use Firefox for time being but will certainly keep an 'open' eye on IE8 development.

Former President of India To Visit Lexington, Kentucky

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, honorable former 11th President of India will visit Lexington, KY on March 23, 24 and 25th. There are several occasions to meet him and listen to a number of talks he will deliver during the visit. 'Celebration India’ which is an open to the entire community (free for all teachers and students) event will be held on 23rd March. During his stay, his Excellency plans to visit The Arboretum and Kentucky Children's Hospital. Other events include the speech at the Gatton College of Business and Economics, University of Kentucky and a Community Reception- ‘Dinner with the President' on 24thMarch. A question-answer session "Presidential Exchange - Interactions with Students" with the students is arranged on 25th March which will conclude his historic visit.
For information about Dr. Kalam’s Technology Vision 2020 for India please click here.

One Lakh ($2500) Car: Curse or a Boon ?

Tata Motor’s Nano for 1 lakh INR ($2500) is targeted towards the growing middle class population which cannot afford a four wheeler at the current prices. Maruti-Suzuki has also announced their plan for developing small cars at the comparable prices. I was wondering in case this disruptive technology is successful in India. Will this really be a boon (uplift the standard of living) or a curse?

1. The current road conditions in India are really bad. There are no ring roads to travel around the city at faster pace bypassing the city traffic. It is difficult to drive a two wheeler in a booming city like Pune and in such scenario a sudden influx of thousands of cars will worsen the situation. The commercial success of these low cost cars will pressurize the existing infrastructure.
2. The second problem is of pollution due to the emission from these cars. Strict pollution norms must be imposed to tackle the emission problem.
3. And what about the ever soaring gas prices? Consumer may think more about the gas price than the actual price of the car.
4. Central parts (similar to a downtown) of the cities like Pune do not have adequate parking facilities. The influx of thousands of cars will add to the existing parking nuisance.
The industry should concentrate their efforts on research and development of low cost ‘hybrid’ cars instead of just low-cost cars. In the long term it will be better and profitable strategy. The Government should work towards building better mass transport systems like Delhi metro. Such projects should be implemented in other booming cities like Pune and Bangalore.
On the other hand, commercial success of the Indian cars in the foreign markets can prove a boon to the economy. India Inc will be more diversified and stable than dependent upon services and the software sector.

Indian Manufacturing Sector Booming

On the eve of the India’s Republic Day I would like to highlight the economic growth the country has achieved in the manufacturing sector. When we hear about India’s growth it’s normally about the services, computer software and IT outsourcing industry. However the country’s manufacturing sector is also making a significant impact on the overall growth. The article “Manufacturing Drives India's Economic Growth” by Uday Lal Pai demonstrates the manufacturing sector growth backed by some impressive statistics.
“A stable and booming economy augurs well for an Indian manufacturing sector that is estimated to command a market capitalization of $520 billion by 2014-15”
The Indian industries like Tata, Reliance, VSNL, Birla Group and Mahindra are on M&A rampage. The internationalization of these firms is having a major impact on the sector. The automotive sector is also picking up. The launch of Tata Nano for $2500 was global news and brought the company in media limelight. Other companies like Bajaj and Mahindra are also planning to launch new cars. The collaboration between Indian and China should also give some uplift.
Happy Republic day!

MTConnect Implementation Workshops

To assist in the implementation of MTConnect, AMT is holding a series of workshops structured to describe the standard, answer questions, aid in developing necessary code for implementation, and address how MTConnect will be showcased at IMTS 2008. These workshops will address the construction of adaptors, including the collection and sending of data. Workshops addressing the Software Developers Kit (SDK) will be held in the near future. If you are interested in being a participant in MTConnect, plan on attending the workshop session at TechSolve, Cincinnati on February 19, 2008.

Where?

TechSolve Inc,

6705 Steger Drive

Cincinnati, OH 45237

1-800-345-4482

When?

19 February, 2008

Requirements in attending a workshop include bringing your own laptop, some programming experience, and a preliminary review of the standard found at http://www.mtconnect.org/. This is necessary since there will be hands on exercises on how to develop an MTConnect adaptor.
New versions of the draft materials for implementing MTConnect are now available at www.MTConnect.org. Included in the materials is example code that can be reviewed to aid in developing agents, adapters, and client software that can be designed to comply with the newly created standard (draft v0.9.5).

Other Locations:

• Chicago, Illinois – TBA, February 20, 2008
  
• Hartford, Connecticut – TBA, February 20, 2008
  
• Berkeley, California – UC Berkeley, February 26, 2008
  
• Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia Tech, February 26, 2008
  
• Detroit, Michigan – TBA, March 18, 2008
  
• Rochester, New York – TBA, March 20, 2008
  

Simulation Game # 3: Can you impact your employer’s financial fortunes? Do you at least know the business strategy and marketplace?

The article “Don't Pick the Door With the Donkey! Manufacturers get in the Simulation Game” at Automation World describes the effectiveness of simulation games at workplace in large manufacturing corporations. The simulation games have proved very helpful for companies and large corporation for employee development and to have a holistic understanding of the employers business and market strategy. Read this special article at Automation World for more details.

Simulation Games # 2: Simulation Game Continuum

The figure explains the relationship between a game, simulation and simulation game. The positive Y axis represents extend of non-reality from a real world situation and the negative Y axis represents the reality. Games have the element of fantasy and chance while the simulations have elements like mathematical symbols, verbal symbols, pictorial representations and physical forms. The simulation games are the integration of games which retain model reality and simulations which describe the model reality with appropriate mathematical and verbal attributes.

Reference: Ochoa, A., “Simulation and Gaming: Simile or Synonym?,” Pedagogy Journal of Education, Sep. 1969, pp. 104-107.

Simulation Games #1: Definition

It’s been a month that I have not posted but honestly speaking last month was crazy with lot of travel and other personal engagements. On the first day of 2008 I start with a new series on the topic ‘Simulation Games’. This first post will focus on defining the term ‘Simulation Game’.

In spite of the attention and research going on in the field of simulation games its definition remains unclear and ambiguous. Their applications in the field of education and training of professionals demand a precise and unambiguous definition. Simulation in its simplest definition is just “representation of reality”. The purpose of a game is to capture the attention of the player by conflict, motivation to win and a scoring element. The player has a sense of win or loss and gets a performance index in terms of score after the game. The desire to improve the performance and get a better score drives the player to get involved in the game more and more. However, steps to make the game more interesting usually leads to the distortion in the representation of reality.

A simulation game is a game, which has elements like score, performance rating, conflict, and payoff and simulates a real world situation for decision-making or alternative evaluation. These multi sensory experiential learning tools allow the player to experience cooperation and teamwork without the risk of expensive mistakes. Simulation games follow the widely accepted “learning by doing” philosophy. Simulation games have myriad applications in education. Simulation games can be used effectively to teach various subjects and topics.

My primary focus in this series of ‘Simulation Games’ will be to explore it’s applications in education and its implications.

Simulation game based learning is an extension of the problem-based learning paradigm, having all its inherent characteristics plus some additional advantages. Simulation game and problem based learning are both experiential, collaborative, active learning and learner centric approaches. In simulation game, the instructor is a facilitator of learning process and students have the responsibility of learning as in problem-based learning. In problem-based learning, a self-assessment is conducted at the end of the problem or the learning cycle. On the other hand, simulation game has a scoring system that is the indication of one’s performance. Students are motivated to maximize their score by trying alternative strategies and read more literature. This is a significant advantage over problem-based learning. Secondly, simulation games are online computer based where student can learn as per his or her time at any place where there is an internet connection. Some studies have found that engineers are visual learners. Advanced graphics and multimedia may be used to capture the student’s attention. This observation calls for extensive use of simulation games especially in the light of decreasing computer technology cost and increasing speeds. Thirdly, some sort of online help is provided in simulation games. Thus, a student does not have to wait for the instructor to address the difficulty. Last and the most important advantage with simulation games is that they can save a lot of clerical work for students. The student can try out various strategies and alternatives and focus on the parameter of interest leaving the calculation and presentation work for the software. It is a more systematic and organized way of learning.


To read more posts on the Simulation Game click here.