In the rapidly evolving landscape of smart buildings and energy management, a groundbreaking framework is poised to revolutionize how future engineers are trained. Led by Angeliki Boltsi from the Department of Digital Systems at the University of Thessaly in Greece, this innovative approach integrates the Engineering Design Process (EDP) with a modular Digital Twin (DT) structure, specifically tailored for Internet of Things (IoT) applications in smart buildings.
Imagine a world where engineers can design, test, and optimize smart building systems in real-time, all within an educational setting. This is the vision that Boltsi and her team are bringing to life. Their framework, published in the journal ‘Sensors’ (translated from Greek as ‘Αισθητήρες’), extends the traditional EDP by incorporating a DT that enables real-time system feedback, simulation-based design iteration, and hands-on experimentation. This isn’t just about teaching engineering; it’s about preparing the next generation of engineers to tackle the complex challenges of the Industry 4.0 era.
“The goal is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application,” Boltsi explains. “By integrating Digital Twins into the engineering curriculum, we can provide students with a more comprehensive understanding of smart systems and their real-world applications.”
The framework comprises seven distinct phases, guiding learners from fundamental concepts to advanced applications. This includes data visualization, real-time simulation, and system optimization—all crucial skills for the energy sector. The practical use case involves a meteorological station equipped with IoT-enabled sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers. This setup allows for real-time monitoring of environmental parameters and energy consumption within a smart building campus facility.
But what does this mean for the energy sector? As smart buildings become more prevalent, the demand for engineers who can design and manage these complex systems will skyrocket. This framework prepares engineers to optimize energy consumption, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability—all while ensuring that buildings are comfortable and efficient.
“The energy sector is on the cusp of a digital transformation,” Boltsi notes. “Our framework ensures that future engineers are not just keeping up with this transformation but are at the forefront of it.”
The hybrid pedagogical approach combines traditional hands-on engineering education with DT activities, fostering experimental learning and iterative system design. This method not only enhances students’ understanding of complex systems but also prepares them to address interdisciplinary challenges.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for innovative solutions and skilled professionals will only grow. This framework, with its focus on real-time feedback and hands-on experimentation, is a significant step forward in preparing the next generation of engineers to meet these challenges head-on. The research published in ‘Sensors’ lays the groundwork for a future where smart buildings are not just a concept but a reality, driven by engineers who are as innovative as they are skilled.