Remote Lab: Ultrasonic Distance Measurement with Arduino

Learning embedded systems programming shouldn’t require physical access to hardware. Our Ultrasonic Distance Measurement Lab provides real Arduino hardware accessible through a web browser, where students write code, upload to actual microcontrollers, and see real sensor measurements—all remotely.

The lab offers differentiated instruction through parallel tracks based on experience level:

Track A - Fundamentals: Students implement low-level sensor control from scratch. They learn to:

This track builds foundational understanding of how ultrasonic sensors communicate through timing signals.

Track B - Library Integration: Experienced students work with the NewPing library, focusing on:

Both tracks use the same hardware but approach the problem from different technical angles, ensuring appropriate challenge levels.

Before accessing real equipment, students practice in the AVR8js simulator:

Track A: Timing exercises using virtual buttons to understand pulse duration measurement—the same principle used by ultrasonic sensors.

Track B: LCD interface development, designing user menus and display layouts without hardware constraints.

The simulator provides immediate feedback, allowing students to debug logic errors and iterate quickly before working with physical components.

Students then access the real setup using:

They write code in the Editor Module, upload via Terminal Module, and watch live video of the sensor responding to objects through the Streaming Module. Real-time serial output shows distance measurements as they happen.

They write code in the Editor Module, upload via Terminal Module, and watch live video of the sensor responding to objects through the Streaming Module. Real-time serial output shows distance measurements as they happen.

This lab teaches embedded systems fundamentals through practical application. Students learn:

The skills apply directly to robotics, automation, parking assistance systems, and countless other embedded applications. The Code Logger Module anonymously captures student work, helping instructors identify common challenges and improve the curriculum.

The lab demonstrates how Edrys-Lite makes hands-on embedded systems education accessible without requiring students to own hardware or visit physical labs. Students at TU Bergakademie Freiberg complete these exercises remotely, gaining practical skills from anywhere with internet access.

Ready to teach ultrasonic sensor fundamentals through hands-on remote experimentation? Build your distance measurement lab with Edrys-Lite!

Explore the lab: github.com/edrys-labs/lab-tubaf-embedded-systems

Learn more about Edrys-Lite: edrys-labs.github.io