Mimics are controllable pictures which represent the environment being controlled.
When an interface is connected, the mimic will reflect the operation of the connected
model. When no interface is connected, the mimic will simulate the model and
allow programs to be developed and tested in simulate mode.
The new generation of 'F3D' mimics are fully animated 3D images controlled
by the flowchart program. Some mimics have virtual inputs which are triggered
by the mimic itself, for example on the Big Wheel a virtual sensor is triggered when a
carriage reaches the steps and a virtual switch is closed when the gate closes.
Mimics Included with Flowol 3
Flowol 3 includes the following set of mimics.
The Mimics included in the Flowol 3 package provide a series of real and relevant problem
solving tasks. These are progressive and introduce the concepts and programming skills in
manageable steps. Most mimics also have a series of graduated activities which encourage the
student to explore the task further, provide differentiation and allow the teacher to assess
the student's knowledge.
1. The first few mimics introduce the idea of simply controlling one, two and then six lights,
outputs, in an appropriate way to make our roads safer.
2. Digital inputs are then added to operate several events within the same control situation.
Subroutines are also employed to ensure compact and efficient programming.
3. Controlling motors (forward and reverse) are then applied to mechanisms.
Responding to analogue inputs (temperature & light sensors) also helps to control the
multifunctional features of an Auto-home or Greenhouse.
4. Using Variables then becomes a useful tool to count and control.
Different motor speeds can also be investigated and responding to the virtual inputs,
triggered by the mimic itself, brings extra realism to the mimics.
A set of student activities
is available which uses the mimics included with Flowol 3.
The Flowol 3 software can be extended by purchasing the following mimic packs.
Each mimic pack adds several additional 3D mimics to the software.
To continue with the progression, the first additional mimic pack to consider is the Primary 3D Mimic Pack.
The Primary Mimics are suitable for students up to 6th/7th grade.
After mastering the Primary Mimic Packs, consider moving onto the Secondary Mimic Packs.
The Secondary mimic packs are suitable for older students (grades 7 and above).
Free Mimics
Download a free 'Train Set 1' mimic for Flowol 3
Download a free 'Santa' mimic for the PC version of Flowol 2 or 3