Practical knowledge in the Smart Energy Lab for the engineers of the future

Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences relies on hands-on learning with Lucas-Nuelle training systems

Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences has constructed a state-of-the-art laboratory building at its site, which houses the new Smart Energy Lab, among other things. The lab represents an important step towards practice-orientated engineering training. The aim is to give students a practical experience of the entire electrical energy chain — from generation to transmission and utilization. The idea for this project was born from the vision of integrating teaching and learning concepts directly into laboratory work. Lucas-Nuelle's training systems impressed with their user-friendliness and smooth integration into the existing infrastructure. The result is a smart grid laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment that enables students to learn practically.

The Smart Energy Lab supports a new, integrative teaching concept. Lectures and laboratory exercises no longer take place separately, but merge into a practice-orientated overall approach. Students can not only experience simulations, but also carry out real experiments, operate measuring devices and carry out fault analyses — significant components of a sound engineering education. The laboratory is also an anchor point for student research projects. For example, data from a tiny house with a PV system and heat pump developed by students is to be integrated into the laboratory. In the future, extensions such as the integration of small wind turbines are conceivable.


‘Laboratories are an indispensable part of engineering training. Even if much of it could be simulated on the computer today, practical experience is still important.’ (Prof. Dr. Karsten Glöser, Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences)

‘We are pleased to make a contribution to ensuring that future specialists in this field, which is so important for the future, receive the best possible training – and are prepared not only theoretically but also practically for the professional challenges of tomorrow.’ (Rudi Fuchs, Area Manager Germany Centre at Lucas-Nuelle)