A 2DoF Twin Rotor MIMO System for Teaching and Research

A two-degree-of-freedom Twin Rotor MIMO (Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output) System (TRMS) is an aerodynamic laboratory equipment at the School of Engineering, University of Leicester for control theory experimentation in the undergraduate (UG) curriculum, Open-Days (ODs), Offer-Holder-Days (OHDs) and research. It is crucial in demonstrating system modelling, simulation, real-time testing, open/closed loop control, and controller design (Proportional-Integral-Derivative, Linear Quadratic Regulator, Model Predictive Control). Feedback received indicates that TRMS experiments have successfully attracted many candidates at ODs/OHDs to the UG aerospace engineering degree programme while giving current students a sense of real-world applicability. Opportunities to further enrich the UG curriculum are explored.