Design, Development, Evaluation of Smart Short-Circuit Detection with Automated Hybrid Power System: A Simulation Teaching Tool for Electrical Technology Courses

This study presents the design, fabrication, and evaluation of a Smart Short-Circuit Detection System integrated with an Automated Hybrid Power System, developed to improve safety and instructional effectiveness in electrical technology education. The system combines smart fault detection and an uninterrupted power supply through solar and utility sources, managed by an automatic transfer switch (ATS). Built into a magnetic wiring board, the device enables students to simulate real-world wiring scenarios while automatically detecting and isolating short circuits to minimize risk. A developmental research design was employed, guided by the Input-Process-Output (IPO) model. The methodology involved conceptual design, material selection, step-by-step fabrication, and experimental testing. The device was constructed using a modular approach, incorporating components such as circuit breakers, relays, sensors, and inverters. Performance evaluation utilized a four-point Likert scale across five criteria: functionality, safety, user interface, usability, and response time.Results showed high acceptance, with composite mean scores ranging from 3.88 to 4.00, indicating strong agreement on the system’s effectiveness. The findings support its use as an instructional tool that enhances student engagement, promotes hands-on learning, and aligns with modern industry standards. Future work may explore further automation and system integration for expanded functionality.