Test bed to teach power quality applying the b-learning methodology

Power quality has always been an important issue to electric power utilities, and it is gaining important awareness among consumers, who are beginning to understand the importance of having power quality. In this paper, a b-learning methodology for a power quality course is applied. A virtual environment which allows the execution of complementary experimental exercises for teaching how the power quality affects the network has been developed. The developed b-learning system is able to provide real data about the performance of the power quality parameters such as peak and RMS voltage or current, phase angle as well as active, reactive and apparent power. Furthermore, the system allows remote access and signals acquisition (for voltage and current), enabling students to perform experiments at their own place, without being physically in the actual laboratory. The web-based virtual environment empowers students by granting them access to the laboratory during their free time. A practical example is presented in order to show the results and capabilities of the system.