Apparatus for Building Electrical Systems Education

This paper describes the design, construction, and use of an apparatus created to enhance building electrical systems education in a junior level Architectural Engineering (AE) course at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Electrical systems are a critical part of any building and one of the four major areas in AE education. This hands-on apparatus provides students the opportunity to learn how parts of the electrical system are connected together through the use of three interactive laboratory assignments. Electrical labs were developed to strengthen the technical knowledge of buildings, the engineered systems within, and the integration of these systems in a total building context. Five electrical boards were created, consisting of a three phase load center, junction boxes, and conduit permanently mounted to a portable board. In order to power the load center, a cord and plug were hard-wired to the lugs of the load center. At the start of each lab, the groups are given circuit breakers, pre-cut wire, receptacles, light switches, light sockets and adequate tools to complete each assignment. The voltage connection assignment consists of installing 1-pole, 2-pole, and 3-pole breakers for different types of loads. The objective is to reinforce the understanding of how different voltages are connected within a 3-phase power distribution system. In the next two assignments the students learn how to properly wire receptacles, a single pole light switch controlling 1 light, and a 3-way/ 4-way switch combination to control multiple lights. The paper includes assignments and a website link to equipment lists. The reaction to the hands-on electrical labs has been exceptionally positive. The students enjoy applying class learning to actual electrical installations. The electrical labs are flexible and could be used in a variety of ways to reinforce many topics.