A Virtual Simulation Experiment of Mechanics: Material Deformation and Failure Based on Scanning Electron Microscopy

Summary

This work presents a three-dimensional virtual simulation experiment for material deformation and failure that provides visualized experimental processes. Through a set of experiments, users can become familiar with the equipment and learn the operations in an immersive and interactive learning environment.

Abstract

This work presents a set of comprehensive virtual experiments to detect material deformation and failure. The most commonly used pieces of equipment in mechanics and material disciplines, such as a metallographic cutting machine and a high-temperature universal creep testing machine, are integrated into a web-based system to provide different experimental services to users in an immersive and interactive learning environment. The protocol in this work is divided into five subsections, namely, the preparation of the materials, molding the specimen, specimen characterization, specimen loading, nanoindenter installation, and SEM in situ experiments, and this protocol aims to provide an opportunity for users regarding the recognition of different equipment and the corresponding operations, as well as the enhancement of laboratory awareness, etc., using a virtual simulation approach. To provide clear guidance for the experiment, the system highlights the equipment/specimen to be used in the next step and marks the pathway that leads to the equipment with a conspicuous arrow. To mimic the hands-on experiment as closely as possible, we designed and developed a three-dimensional laboratory room, equipment, operations, and experimental procedures. Moreover, the virtual system also considers interactive exercises and registration before using chemicals during the experiment. Incorrect operations are also allowed, resulting in a warning message informing the user. The system can provide interactive and visualized experiments to users at different levels.

Introduction

Mechanics is one of the basic disciplines in engineering, as shown by the emphasis placed on the foundation of mathematical mechanics and theoretical knowledge and the attention given to the cultivation of students' practical abilities. With the rapid advancement of modern science and technology, nanoscience and technology have had a huge impact on human life and the economy. Rita Colwell, the former director of the US National Science Foundation (NSF), declared in 2002 that nanoscale technology would have an impact equal to the Industrial Revolution¹ and noted that nanotechnology is truly a portal to a new world². T....

Protocol

In this work, the procedures of the microcantilever beam fracture experiment with cracks are discussed as follows, which is open for free access via http://civ.whu.rofall.net/virexp/clqd. All the steps are conducted in the online system based on the virtual simulation approach. Institutional Review Board approval was not required for this study. Consent was obtained from the student volunteers who took part in this study.

1. Accessing the system and entering the interface

1. Open a web browser, and enter the URL http://civ.whu.rofall.net/virexp/clqd to access the system.
   NOTE: The pro....

Results

The system provides clear guidance for the user's operations. First, beginner-level training is integrated when a user enters the system. Second, the equipment and the laboratory room to be used for the next-step operation are highlighted.

The system can be used for several different educational purposes for different levels of students. For example, Figure 1 includes seven of the most commonly used types of equipment in the mechanical and mat.......

Discussion

One of the advantages of virtual simulation experiments is that they allow users to conduct the experiments without concerns regarding damaging the physical system or causing any harm to themselves¹¹. Thus, users can conduct any operations, including either correct or wrong operations. However, the system gives the user a warning message that is integrated into the interactive experiment to guide them to conduct the experiments correctly when a wrong operation is conducted. In this way, users can .......

Materials

Name	Company	Catalog Number	Comments
Virtual interface	None	None	http://civ.whu.rofall.net/virexp/clqd