3D Virtual System for Learning in the Interpretation of Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams Using the ISA 5.1 Standard

This paper proposes the development of a virtual system as a tool for teaching and learning the ISA 5.1 standard, which is used for symbology and instrument identification in piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs). A teaching methodology based on level control for water inlet into a steam boiler, characterized in the Unity graphics engine, is proposed. The immersive virtual environment allows students to be trained in subjects related to process control and industrial instrumentation. The teaching methodology involves interaction between the virtual environment and the P&ID, guiding students to recognize the symbology used in the standard and the location of instruments within the virtual environment, and then to recognize the real instruments in the didactic station. The results obtained show the utility of the virtual system as a tool in teaching the ISA 5.1 standard and the improvement in student performance.