Focuses on digital data acquisition systems used on mechanical engineering equipment. Students design measurement systems composed of various transducers, their associated signal conditioners and digital data acquisition and recording devices. Statistical methods are emphasized. Experiments require the students to provide calibration and to select appropriate sampling rates and test durations. Systems under test range from simple multisensor laboratory apparatus to actual operating mechanical systems. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Quantitative Literacy (QL).
Mathematical approaches for numerically solving partial differential equations. The focus will be (a) iterative solution methods for linear and non-linear equations, (b) spatial discretization and meshing (c) finite difference methods (FDM), (d) finite volume methods (FVM), (e) finite element methods (FEM) and (f) boundary element methods (BEM). The theory behind of each of these methods will be developed and discussed. Computer programming applications involving the solution of linear and non-linear PDEs in multiple dimensions will play a key role in this course. Unique computer programming assignments will be selected from different engineering/science fields (possibilities include: fluid flow, heat transfer, electrostatics, electromagnetism, structural analysis, medical, ocean engineering etc.) to illustrate the broad applicability of numerical methods. Students will be expected to complete programming assignments — while most class examples will deal with pseudo code and/or matlab, a working knowledge of one of the following programming languages is recommended: Matlab, Octave, C, C++, fortran, Java, BASIC, or Python.
Students perform independent design work and participate in team efforts to develop conceptual designs from functional requirements. Perform design analysis and synthesis, modeling, fabrication, testing, cost estimating, and documenting the essential elements of the system design. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Applied & Integrative Learning (AIL), Information Literacy (IL), and Written & Oral Communication (WOC).