bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Supervision: Matches and Mismatches
Authors: Murphy Noela
Published: February 2013

This paper explores differences between beliefs endorsed by supervisors and candidates and between their preferred supervisory practices. It builds on previous research which identified a variety of orientations to research higher degree supervision within one electrical engineering faculty. Contrary to traditional thinking, it was found that supervisors and candidates (pairings here referred to as ‘dyads’), generally think about and approach supervision in very different ways. This is discussed as a contributory factor to poor supervisory experiences and longer than average completion times. Suggestions for improvement are offered.
Light and Electromagnetic Waves Teaching in Engineering Education
Authors: Kezerashvili Roman Ya.
Published: February 2013

Suggestions are made for physics laboratory exercises and the physics laboratory curricula are discussed for engineering majors where the properties of light and electromagnetic waves are studied in parallel. It is shown that there are important educational advantages of an experimental study of the properties of microwaves as an example of electromagnetic waves simultaneously with the properties of light: on the one hand, it enables visualisation of the properties of microwaves, and on the other, it provides evidence that light is an electromagnetic wave.
Transmission Line Shunt and Series Compensation with Voltage Sensitive Loads
Authors: Eminoglu Ulas , Hocaoglu M. Hakan , Yalcinoz Tankut
Published: February 2013

This paper presents an analysis of the effects of shunt and series line compensation levels on the transmission line voltage profile, transferred power and transmission losses for different static load models. For this purpose, a simple model is developed to calculate the series and/or shunt compensated transmission line load voltage. Consequently, different shunt and series compensation levels are used with several voltage sensitive load models for two different line models. It is observed that the compensation level is significantly affected by the voltage sensitivities of loads. Moreover, the voltage level of the transmission is an important issue for the selection of the shunt and series capacitor sizes when load voltage dependency is used.
Teaching Bachelors Electronic Circuits with Electronic System Design in Mind
Authors: Larsson-Edefors Per
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the development of Electronic Circuits, an elective course in the final year of computer and digital system engineering Bachelor programmes at Chalmers University of Technology. Serving as a bridge between the traditional circuits perspective of junior-level courses and the electronic system perspective of senior-level courses, the course was developed to lay a foundation for contemporary electronic system design in a manner that spurs student motivation. The course adopts an integrated view of analog circuits, digital circuits, and wires, and this necessitates a new pedagogical flow, including an extensive set of design-oriented exercises.
Interpretation of Feedback Amplifier by a Power Series of Succeeding Feedback Components
Authors: Lee Lee-Min
Published: February 2013

The output of the linear feedback amplifier is modelled as the superposition of a series of succeeding feedback components. The loop circuit is interpreted as a distributed delaying circuit that spreads an instantaneously applied impulse signal into many infinitesimal components of various delay times. This interpretation is used to explain that the instantaneous feedback component is infinitesimal regardless of how large the loop gain is. Since the instantaneous loop gain between succeeding feedback components is infinitesimal, convergence of the series can be achieved. The relationship between the input and output of the overall system is then derived. We hope that our point of view can provide more insight into the operating mechanism of the feedback circuit and serve as a bridge between introductory textbooks and Nyquist's theory.
The ‘a + b’ Argument for Teaching Resonance
Authors: Gluskin Emanuel , Shmilovitz Doron
Published: February 2013

An objection to teaching resonance exclusively in terms of phasors is expressed.
A Very Simple Experimental Technique for Characterising and Diagnosing Electrolytic Capacitors
Authors: Buiatti G. M. , Amaral A. M. R. , Cardoso A. J. M.
Published: February 2013

In this paper, an experimental technique for the offline characterisation of electrolytic capacitors in a wide range of frequencies is presented. The Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR) of electrolytic capacitors is a key parameter for the design of power converters operating at high frequencies, and also for capacitor diagnosis. Not only is the capacitance value at low frequencies another important parameter for the diagnosis of electrolytic capacitors, usually it is the component with the shortest lifetime in these converters. Since impedance analysers are often very expensive and not always available in many laboratories, this proposed technique appears as a very useful tool especially for educational purposes. This is due to its easy implementation, accuracy, simplicity and cost. Curve fitting through least mean squares (LMS) algorithm is discussed and presented as the solution for the technique implementation. Experimental results are presented and compared with results from an impedance analyser, validating the accuracy of the technique.
A.C. Winding Analysis Using a Winding Function Approach
Authors: Joksimović Gojko
Published: February 2013

A crucial part of every electrical machines course is the introduction to the basic elements of alternating current (a.c.) windings design. An introduction to and definition of the full-pitch coil magnetomotive force (m.m.f.) usually continues with analysis based on fundamental m.m.f. harmonics. This paper presents a winding function approach to a.c. winding analysis, which is more familiar to practising engineers than those in education. This approach has at least two principal advantages over the conventional one. First, it takes into account the exact m.m.f. waveform, i.e. all of the m.m.f. space harmonics simultaneously. Secondly, this approach is mainly computer-oriented and consequently interdisciplinary. All the basic terms in the field such as distribution factor, pitch factor, synchronous speed etc. can and are derived in this paper using a winding function definition. Additionally, basic elements of Fourier's analysis using built-in MATLAB® functions are described and its applications are illustrated.
A GUI-Based Education Toolbox for Power Electronics Converters Using MATLAB/Simulink and SimPowerSystems
Authors: Altintas Ahmet
Published: February 2013

A power electronics course is essential for electrical engineers and is typically included in the undergraduate-level syllabus. Power electronics converters (PECs) are widely used to provide power processing for applications ranging from communications and medical electronics to motor drives, power conversion and high-power transmission, making them one of the most important topics for power electronics engineering. This paper presents an educational graphical user interface (GUI) for simulation of various topologies of PECs which students can use to explore the behaviour of PECs. The GUI is developed by using Matlab/Simulink, SimPowerSystems and the GUIDE tool of MATLAB, which acts as a front-end interface that can be used for teaching as well as learning. The positive response from students indicates that the comprehensive GUI package is extremely useful for power electronics courses. The package can be considered as a virtual laboratory or as a useful learning tool for the power community.
Hands-on Experiments on Intelligent Behaviour for Mobile Robots
Authors: Cuevas Erik , Zaldivar Daniel , Pérez-Cisneros Marco , Ramirez-Ortegon Marte
Published: February 2013

In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques have emerged as useful non-traditional tools for solving various engineering problems. AI has thus become an important subject in the engineering curriculum. However, the design of a balanced AI course is not a trivial task as its concepts commonly overlap with many other disciplines relating a wide number of subjects and ranging from applied approaches to more formal mathematical issues. This paper presents the use of a simple robotic platform to assist the learning of basic AI concepts. The study is guided by simple experimentation on autonomous mobile robots. The presented material has been successfully tested as an AI teaching aid in the University of Guadalajara's robotics group, yielding motivation to students, increasing enrolment and retention on robotics-related courses and eventually contributing to the development of competent computer engineers.
An Educational Tool for Teaching Vehicle Electronic System Architecture
Authors: Skruch Pawel
Published: February 2013

The paper presents a model of vehicle electronic systems that has been created in cooperation with Delphi Technical Centre, Krakow, in Poland. The model can be used as a training device for students of different electrical engineering departments, providing the students with new opportunities to learn modern vehicle electronic system architecture. Research and teaching applications of the model embrace the following aspects: modern vehicle software system architecture, data protocols (i.e., CAN, LIN) that are used in the automotive industry, vehicle diagnostic protocol, automotive embedded systems, sensors and actuators used in the vehicle, power and battery management. The model can be used directly as a laboratory bench or as an extension for individual research activities.
A Micromouse Kit for Teaching Autonomous Mobile Robots
Authors: Su Juing-Huei , Lee Chyi-Shyong , Huang Hsin-Hsiung , Huang Jheng-Yu
Published: February 2013

The application of a micromouse kit to raise student interest in learning the implementation skills of autonomous mobile robots is presented in this paper. The kit is devised for both a project-oriented hands-on laboratory for graduate students, and introductory workshops for vocational high school students and teachers. To enhance the learning outcomes, micromouse contests are also organised for students to see how well the techniques are applied in their micromice. The assessments and feedback from students show the kit and the related laboratory experiences do help motivate students to learn actively and successfully the implementation skills of autonomous mobile robots.
The Reverse Gain of Linear Feedback Amplifiers: A Word of Caution
Authors: Moura Luis
Published: February 2013

In this note we discuss the reverse gain of feedback amplifiers; a parameter often neglected in the feedback analysis presented in most textbooks on electronics. The discussion presented here shows how this reverse gain can have a significant impact on the feedback circuit input and output impedances, even when such a gain is negligible and the circuit is considered as ‘unilateral’.
Development of Pyramidia: An Integrative E-Learning Multimedia Tool
Authors: Pale Predrag , Miletic Ivan , Kostanjcar Zvonko , Pandzic Hrvoje , Jeren Branko
Published: February 2013

The software package described in this paper, Pyramidia, combines two strong elements into one lecturing system. The first is the simple addition of content and interactivity to existing PowerPoint presentations, and the second is video capture of a lecture. These features provide obvious benefits for both sides of the lecturing process: the lecturers and the students. Students can re-experience lectures at anytime, anywhere and at their own pace. Lecturers can add interactivity to their lectures without worrying about learning complex new software. Pyramidia is a descendant of previous software developments and research on ICT usage in education, and has been used and tested throughout a few semesters of lectures for several courses. Although there are many solutions, both commercial and academic, available to potential users, Pyramidia is unique for its. NET framework programming base.
RTE-SIM: A Simple, Low-Cost and Flexible Environment to Support the Teaching of Real-Time and Embedded Control
Authors: Short Michael , Cox Chris
Published: February 2013

Contemporary teaching of real-time control, basic elements of which are part of a modern control engineering syllabus, can be restricted by the availability of laboratory space and the high costs of equipment, development tools and test beds. This paper describes RTE-SIM – a novel, flexible and low-cost environment developed by the authors to help alleviate these problems. The environment is in the form of an ARM7 microcontroller-based hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) environment. The paper describes each component in the HIL configuration, followed by an example of a typical student exercise. Most institutions can implement the proposed environment with few (if any) additional cost, space or time penalties incurred, and based on initial experiences of its use, some possible areas of future development are suggested.
Group Projects in Teaching Microcontrollers
Authors: Djukic Dejan
Published: February 2013

This paper describes a course on microcontrollers, in which the principal learning activity happens in small group projects. The course design includes some unusual solutions, such as a group and project lottery, or the inter- and intra-group peer assessment scheme. The details of the design of the course are presented, together with some variations tried. Some reflections are offered on the choices made, and some ways in which this teaching format may be improved have been suggested. The experiences with this course have been positive, and group projects can be recommended without reserve to all courses on this and similar subjects.
Implementation of Fuzzy Logic Controller Using FORTRAN Language in PSCAD/EMTDC
Authors: Teke Ahmet , Meral M. Emin , Saribulut Lütfü , Tümay Mehmet
Published: February 2013

Fuzzy logic controllers have gained widespread use by engineers and practitioners due to their design simplicity, closeness to human reasoning and suitability for control applications. Fuzzy logic controlled studies are usually performed in MATLAB, or sometimes in PSCAD/EMTDC (Power Systems Computer Aided Design/Electromagnetic Transient including d.c.) with MATLAB interfacing. The PSCAD/EMTDC software does not include a component for a fuzzy logic controller. This paper is, to the best of our knowledge, the first work that designs and implements a fuzzy logic controller in PSCAD/EMTDC by using FORTRAN codes. In this way, several drawbacks which arise from the interfacing between MATLAB and PSCAD/EMTDC are eliminated. The simulation section of this paper consists of a case study based on a fuzzy logic-controlled PWM inverter in which the performance of the developed fuzzy logic controller is evaluated.
Students' Versatility with Resistor-Capacitor Circuits
Authors: Pulé Sarah
Published: February 2013

It is observed that engineering students often fail to transfer their existing knowledge to unfamiliar situations. The research question considered in this paper asks whether students' knowledge of circuits with one resistor and one capacitor is versatile and transferable. The findings show that students have significant difficulty with unfamiliar circuit configurations. Presenting more appropriate conceptual models may be key in providing students with enough holistic technological knowledge to solve unfamiliar problems. Understanding how students perceive circuit diagrams may provide valuable information for the design of qualitative models targeted to enable versatile visualisation of the phenomena of resistor-capacitor circuits.
Optimizing Cascades of Endo-Reversible Heat Engines
Authors: Lewins Jeffery D.
Published: February 2013

The endo-reversible (or finite time) model of thermal power plant is extended to a cascade. A first optimization gives the condition for maximizing the power output from a given design and is a generalization of previous results for one unit. A second optimization similarly generalizes results for one unit over the allotment of the irreversible heat transfer components either side of the Carnot reversible engine. This optimization itself is generalized from conditions of fixed total heat transfer capability to allow for varying cost and varying effectiveness in the most general case. Lagrange multipliers are given that show the change in optimized output for a change in constraints of area, cost or effectiveness. Explicit results are given for the temperature distribution in the two-component cascade which indicates the optimum distribution of power: two parts from the topping unit, one part from the bottoming unit. It is shown that in a given case one should seek therefore to operate with as few units as possible and in the ratio 2:1 for two units. The two-unit results are readily extended to provide explicit temperature distributions for any finite cascade, second optimized or not.
Thermal Engineering Design Project: An Apparatus for Determining the Density of Water in the Neighbourhood of 4°C
Authors: Mullisen R. S.
Published: February 2013

A thermal engineering design project involving the experimental determination of the density of water in the neighbourhood of 4°C is described in this paper. The author's design employed a sensitive cylindrical float with a diameter of 1.25 mm at the water line. From 0°C to 4°C (water density is maximum at 4°C) the float rose about 8 mm and from 4°C to 25°C the float sank about 40 mm. Using ρ = 1000 kg/m3 at 4°C as a given reference in reducing the data, the density curve closely replicated the curvature of the published density curve. A class of junior mechanical engineering students produced designs using a floating body with varying waterline, a submerged body with varying buoyancy, and a captured body of water rising in a small cross-sectional column. Collectively there were 382 data points. Most of the data clustered very nicely around the published density curve and followed the characteristic hump at 4°C.
A Computer Model as an Educational Tool for Gas Turbine Performance
Authors: Mathioudakis K. , Politis E. , Stamatis A.
Published: February 2013

The use of gas turbine performance models for educational purposes is discussed and a particular instance of such a model is presented. The model facilitates the presentation of the basic rules which govern gas turbine engine behaviour and helps in the understanding of different aspects of its operation. It can graphically present engine operating point data in a number of different ways: operating line, pressure and temperature distributions along the gas path, operating points of the components, variation of particular quantities with operating conditions etc. Apart from operating as an engine simulator, the model can also be used to demonstrate the principles of component matching and the behaviour of numerical algorithms for building an engine model. Finally, it facilitates familiarization with the principles of gas turbine fault diagnosis, by the incorporation of some diagnostic possibilities, again providing information in a graphical manner.
Analysing the Strength of Non-Continuous Weld Seams in Joints under Eccentrically Applied Loads
Authors: Vogwell J.
Published: February 2013

This paper compares different techniques for determining the strength of fillet welded lap joints under eccentric shear loading and assesses the benefit of having a torsionally closed, continuous fillet weld seam in preference to a torsionally open joint. The validity of generally using analysis based on simple torsion theory, as widely proposed in numerous design texts, is questioned and the alternative of using tubular, thin-walled section and thin rectangular member torsion theory is investigated. The accuracy of the various torsional analytical techniques as applied to analysing torsionally open and closed section weld seams are compared with those given by a finite element analysis.
Well Mixed Model Analysis in Indoor Air Quality
Authors: Assad Mamdouh El Haj
Published: February 2013

In this work, unsteady contaminant concentrations in enclosures have been analysed by using a sequential box model. The enclosure is divided into two cells for which a nondimensional analysis is introduced to find the unsteady contaminant concentrations in each cell. The dimensionless concentrations have been obtained in terms of input parameters which can be controlled. An analytical solution for the system of equations has been obtained. The results show that the input parameters which account for the air exchange across the boundary between the cells have a major effect on contaminant concentrations of the cells. As these parameters approach low values, one of the cells will not receive any contaminant and the other will have well mixed conditions; however, as they increase, both cells approach the same contaminant and the whole enclosure will be well mixed.

This work also represents a fundamental approach to obtain the contaminant concentration in an enclosure for different types of contaminant emission rates.
Maximum Work Output for Gas Cycles with Constraint
Authors: Liley P. E.
Published: February 2013

Simple equations for the thermodynamic efficiencies of ideal Otto, Diesel and Brayton cycles are derived for cycles with fixed ambient and upper temperatures, all resulting in equations containing the difference of the square roots of these temperatures.
Some Applications of Computer Algebra to Classical Problems in Plate Theory
Authors: Mbakogu F. C. , Pavlovic M. N.
Published: February 2013

A computer-algebra system is used in solving certain classical problems in the bending and vibration of elastic plates. It is shown how often difficult, tedious and error-prone analytical derivations of the types commonly encountered in the course of solving such problems can be reliably and straightforwardly carried out through the application of symbolic-manipulation algorithms, which also provide a ready means of checking available, manually derived, results such as those arising in class exercises and/or design problems amenable to closed-form expressions. Several case studies are reported, including two problems for which incorrect solutions have been presented in the literature.
Effect of Tool-Work Deflections on the Shape of a Broached Hole
Authors: Sajeev V. , Vijayaraghavan L. , Rao U. R. K.
Published: February 2013

During the broaching process, the workpiece and the broach undergo deflections owing to the large forces involved. The final shape of the broached component is a consequence of the net effect of tool-work deflections during broaching. In this paper the final shape arrived at from the FEM analysis is compared with the actual shape after broaching. The shape produced by cutting teeth and burnishing teeth are separately discussed with the help of finite element analysis. The experimental and theoretical results have been analysed with a view to arriving at useful conclusions related to the broaching process and the broach design. Some relevant discussion is also included.
An Experiment for Teaching Hypersonic Aerodynamics to Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Students
Authors: Tuttle S. L.
Published: February 2013

An experiment designed to enhance the teaching of hypersonics to undergraduate mechanical engineering students is described. A small shock tunnel is used to demonstrate principles learned in the classroom. The pressures measured on two models at hypersonic Mach numbers are compared with suitable theoretical estimates. Typical results are shown and the success and relevance of the experiment is reported. Consideration is given to the teaching of such a highly specialized subject as hypersonic aerodynamics at the undergraduate level.
An Analysis of the Effects of Burnishing in Internal Broaching
Authors: Sajeev V. , Vijayaraghavan L. , Rao U. R. K.
Published: February 2013

The finite element analysis gives the stresses and deflections of the broach and workpiece while cutting and burnishing. This has been achieved by developing a suitable finite element program for solving linear and non-linear material behaviour problems. The broach has been considered to behave elastically. In case of burnishing, the stresses on the workpiece result in yielding, and hence, non-linear material behaviour is considered for the workpiece. The program has been further modified to compute residual stresses on the broached component. The movement of a single burnishing tooth through the workpiece is simulated in a step-by-step manner, leading to residual stresses on the broached surface. The burnishing tooth and corresponding portion of the workpiece are modelled using FEM. The effect of tool-work interference and the ratio of radial to axial force on the stresses and deflections while burnishing have been studied. The residual stresses left behind on the broached component have been analytically evaluated.
A New Approach to Teaching Thermofluids Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Davies Mark R. D. , Dalton Tara M.
Published: February 2013

A new method of dimensional analysis is presented by demonstrating its application to a range of problems in fluid flow and heat transfer. The technique is a development of a previously published and accepted method of inspectional analysis. This new technique is shown to give the correct results on both simple equations with solutions, and on more complex sets of partial differential equations without solutions. This development of a single method from the simple to the complex has obvious teaching advantages.
A Note on the Use of the Instant Center as a Reference Point for Angular Momentum Theorems
Authors: Williams Harry E.
Published: February 2013

The use of the instant center as a reference point in angular momentum theorems has the advantage that unknown contact forces do not appear in the equations of motion. However, care must be taken to distinguish the point as being on the body or the space centrode.
Thermal Engineering Design Project: An Apparatus for Determining the Viscosity of Water as a Function of Temperature
Authors: Mullisen R. S.
Published: February 2013

A thermal engineering design project requiring the design, construction, and operation of an apparatus that measures the viscosity of water as a function of temperature is described in this paper. The author's design employed a rotating cylinder viscometer with a transient analysis to obtain water viscosity in the temperature range of 0° to 30 °C. A class of junior mechanical engineering students, working in teams, produced designs using capillary tubes, falling spheres, and rotating cylinders. Collectively there were 432 data points. Most of the data clustered rather well around the published viscosity curve.
Understanding the Nonlinear Dynamics of Liquid Flow with Surge Tanks
Authors: Mawasha P. Ruby , Gross Richard J.
Published: February 2013

The problem considered here is that of a pressurized surge tank with a constant inlet mass flow rate and an outlet mass flow rate through a circular channel. The dynamic behaviour of this system can be influenced by the liquid height inside the surge tank, the inlet and outlet mass flow rates, the gas pressure in the surge tank, and the liquid kinetic energy that is often neglected in textbooks and fluid dynamics literature. The model considers a constant density liquid in laminar flow and investigates the nonlinear effects of liquid height in the pressurized surge tank, mass flow rates, gas pressure, and kinetic energy on the system behaviour. Also, the model is investigated for scenarios that manifest in oscillatory behaviour.
Teaching the Environmental Impact of Industrial Processes
Authors: Rosen Marc A.
Published: February 2013

Concerns about the environmental impact of industrial processes will likely continue to increase in the future as global population grows, the demand for engineering-related goods and services expands, and economic development increases. In this paper, a recently developed course on the environmental impact of industrial processes is described, which is suitable for engineers in mechanical and other engineering fields and for others working in industry and technology. The course concerns such topics as industry—environmental interactions, industrial ecology, environmental concerns, life-cycle assessment, industrial process residues and design for environment. Two comprehensive case studies and a major student project are included in the course. The course has been offered twice. Based on the feedback received, the course has been successful in meeting its objectives of increasing student knowledge and appreciation of the environmental impact of industrial processes, and has been considered worthwhile by students.
Theory of Machines and Mechanisms in the Electronic Era
Authors: Sandler B. Z. , Livshits V.
Published: February 2013

The widely held notion ‘that most machine problems can be solved by active control’ and Machines and Mechanisms Theory can be dropped from mechanical engineering curricula is discussed and refuted, and the role of electronics and computers in machine engineering are put in their correct context. Computer-aided control of machines and mechanisms cannot replace the mechanical essence of the mechanical end-actuator, tool, etc. An in-depth knowledge of the theory of mechanisms is essential for the understanding and development of new approaches to machine design as well as for computer programming relevant to this field.
A Simple Instructional Experiment on Unsteady Heat Conduction That Quantifies the Existing Competition between Natural Convection and Radiation
Authors: Campo Antonio , Blotter Jonathan
Published: February 2013

The goal of this paper was to examine the unsteady cooling of a hot small sphere that was suspended from the ceiling of a large room by a wire. Theoretical analyses and experimental observations have demonstrated that the magnitudes of the convective heat transfer coefficients in natural convective air flows around bodies are small. In all likelihood, equivalent radiative transfer coefficients have comparable magnitudes, particularly if a metallic surface is nearly black, to deliver a high value of the total hemispherical emissivity of the surface of a body. Adopting the lumped model, the variations of temperature with time were estimated based on two mechanisms: (a) nonlinear natural convection, (b) surface radiation, and (c) nonlinear natural convection coupled with surface radiation. Employing an initial temperature of 550 C, the temperature evolution of the sphere was predicted analytically and numerically and also measured experimentally. The experimental temperature versus time data gathered have convincingly demonstrated that when the mechanisms of nonlinear natural convection and surface radiation are brought together, the numerically-determined temperatures went down markedly, coming close to the measured temperatures.
Simple Theory for Laminar Natural Convection Heat Transfer (and Film Boiling and Film Condensation) or Where Do the Nusselt and Rayleigh Numbers Come From?
Authors: Winterton R. H. S.
Published: February 2013

It is difficult to give a scientific introduction to convective heat transfer. Accurate analysis is very lengthy. Dimensional analysis gives no physical insight and the meaning of the dimensionless groups is sometimes obscure. The present paper gives a much simpler analysis for natural convection on a vertical plate which quickly arrives at the Nusselt and Rayleigh numbers. In addition virtually the same analysis gives the heat transfer rate in film condensation and film boiling.
A New Approach to Teaching Undergraduate Thermal/Fluid Sciences—Courses in Applied Computational Fluid Dynamics and Compressible Flow
Authors: Navaz Homayun K. , Henderson Brenda S. , Berg Raymond M. , Nekcoei S. M. A.
Published: February 2013

A new approach is taken in teaching elective courses in thermal/fluid sciences (TFS) specialities primarily to undergraduate students in mechanical, aerospace, and chemical engineering disciplines by incorporating new and advanced technology into the curriculum. Two courses are designed at mezzanine level for undergraduate and graduate students that utilize computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental methods. Techniques to enable undergraduates to learn advanced course materials are discussed. A course in Applied Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is designed that combines the basic concepts in algorithmic and numerical aspects of CFD with experimental verification and validation. The course provides a mathematical and physical understanding of the behaviour of the conservation equations for different flow regimes through lectures, projects and hands-on experience. Another course in modern compressible flow will enable students to utilize the CFD technology and measurement methods to find accurate solutions to a wide range and complex problems in gas dynamics. Students develop the capability to utilize this new and growing technology in their industrial career after graduation.
Making and Characterizing Negative Poisson's Ratio Materials
Authors: Lakes R. S. , Witt R.
Published: February 2013

We present an introduction to the use of negative Poisson's ratio materials to illustrate various aspects of mechanics of materials. Poisson's ratio is defined as minus the ratio of transverse strain to longitudinal strain in simple tension. For most materials, Poisson's ratio is close to 1/3. Negative Poisson's ratios are counter-intuitive but permissible according to the theory of elasticity. Such materials can be prepared for classroom demonstrations, or made by students.
An Exercise in Elementary Smart Structures
Authors: Seffen K. A. , Butler D. J.
Published: February 2013

Research into smart structures is now extensive and, increasingly, is finding practical application in many aerospace, mechanical-, civil-, and bio-engineering domains. Thus, to maintain pace with well-established developments, it is inevitable that analysis of smart structures finds a place in engineering degree courses. The examples studied here provide an introduction and are elementary beams with perfectly bonded layers of piezoelectric material. Simple analytical models describe the induced stress and deformation in each beam according to compact dimensionless groups. A finite element analysis is also carried out to confirm results and the sensitivity of behaviour due to the mesh density is addressed.
A Multi-Purpose Thermal Design Project That Works
Authors: Damshala Prakash R. , Bailey Robert T.
Published: February 2013

The incorporation of engineering design projects into core undergraduate engineering courses can be a powerful method to facilitate student learning. This paper describes a project centred around the design of a solar storage wall (SSW)—an asymmetric structure that is used to capture solar energy for building heating. The project, which combines computer-based engineering modelling and economic analysis, is assigned to undergraduate students in a three-semester-hour introductory heat and mass transfer course at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
The Spinodal for a Van Der Waals Fluid
Authors: Liley P. E.
Published: February 2013

An analytical relation is derived relating volumes on the spinodal of a Van der Waals gas.
Boil–Freeze–Pop Thermodynamics
Authors: Mullisen R. S.
Published: February 2013

A NASA astronaut's observation of a pan of water placed in a vacuum chamber used for simulated space conditions provided information for this analysis. As the vacuum chamber was depressurized the water was observed to boil violently, then flash freeze, and then ice popped out of the pan. A thermodynamic analysis of the observed behaviour includes phase change cooling, an explanation of the boil—freeze—pop performance and a process path plot on the pressure—volume—temperature diagram that passes through the triple point of water.
Exact Analytic Solutions of Vibrations of Infinite 1–D Elastic Lines with Lumped Parameters
Authors: Karavashkin S. B.
Published: February 2013

In this paper we will analyse the most essential drawbacks of known solutions for the problem of vibrant infinite 1–D elastic lumped lines. We will present exact analytic solutions for forced and free vibrations of semi-infinite and infinite homogeneous elastic lines. We will analyse the solutions obtained, consider their physical essence and verify these solutions to corroborate they are exact and complete.
Some Remarks on the Teaching of Polymer Processing to Mechanical Engineering Students
Authors: Torres Fernando G.
Published: February 2013

Polymer processing is a fundamental part of modern science and technology, but it is not a high profile component in a mechanical engineering course. This paper proposes a course for teaching polymer processing to mechanical engineering students. The aim has been to find the proper balance between a purely theoretical and a design-oriented approach. The course outline is proposed and some remarks on the teaching style and the available teaching aids are given. These include the use of analogies and semi-finished products in order to identify and visualize the different processing stages. Finally, some more advanced topics have been proposed which can be delivered as part of a graduate course. The global purpose of the whole programme is to introduce the teaching of polymer processing operations in a mechanical engineering course, where previous experience in the field is not available.
A Single-Plane Rotating Imbalance Experiment
Authors: Ng T. W.
Published: February 2013

A simple experiment to demonstrate single-plane rotating imbalance is described. Inexpensive and commonly available items were used in the experiment to emphasize the concepts presented in an uncluttered manner and to underline the importance of simplicity. Students were also required to assemble the experiment by themselves to maximize experiental learning. The experiment was able to provide accurate predictions of the angular position and magnitude that an imbalance mass imposed.
An Engineer's Approach to a General Algorithm for Finding the Sum of Powers of Natural Numbers
Authors: Venkatachalam R. , Sharma Umesh Chandra
Published: February 2013

Convenient formulae for finding the sums of kth power of the first n natural numbers may be useful in some engineering applications. The formulae for k = 1, 2, and 3, are commonly found in the literature. In this paper, an attempt is made to develop a general algorithm for finding the sum for any positive integer value of k. The development of the algorithm is entirely an engineering approach, based purely on a simple geometric interpretation and does not involve any deep mathematics. This algorithm may be used to derive the formulae for different values of k. Some of the possible engineering applications of these formulae are also discussed.
Teaching Manufacturing Systems Integration through Data Modelling and Network Exchange Simulation
Authors: Vosniakos George C.
Published: February 2013

This work outlines an approach for teaching the concepts and practicalities of manufacturing systems integration to mechanical engineers. The approach taken is that of data or soft integration. The aim is to achieve ‘minimalist’ integration among six computer-based manufacturing system areas: design, production planning, process planning, material control, shopfloor scheduling and control, and quality assurance. Reference models describing the data exchange between these areas are given. Data flow and concurrency, the formulation of queries and composition of answers between applications are discussed based on an implementation of data models as a relational database system. The data refer to a bicycle-making company and serve as a realistic basis for experimenting with the realities of designing and putting in operation an integrated manufacturing system.
Experimental Comparison of Heat Transfer Enhancement Methods in Heat Exchangers
Authors: Abu-Mulaweh Hosni I.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents an experimental comparison of four different types of heat transfer enhancement techniques or methods in heat exchangers: two insert devices (a displacement device and a swirl flow device), extended surfaces, and obstruction devices. The objective of these experiments is to assist undergraduate mechanical engineering students in understanding the basic heat transfer processes and the methods and devices that can be implemented to enhance the heat transfer. The experimental setup and apparatus required to carry out these experiments are relatively simple. The apparatus includes five tube-within-a-tube heat exchangers with three thermocouples at each end, two rotameters, a heating element, a water pump, and a data acquisition device. Four of the five heat exchangers are modified by one type of the above-mentioned heat transfer enhancement techniques. The equipment is relatively inexpensive and available in almost all undergraduate heat transfer laboratories.
The RC Analogy Provides a Versatile Computational Tool for Unsteady, Unidirectional Heat Conduction in Regular Solid Bodies Cooled by Adjoining Fluids
Authors: Campo Antonio , Alhama Francisco
Published: February 2013

Evaluation of spatio-temporal temperatures and total heat transfer rates in simple bodies (large plate, long cylinder and sphere) has been traditionally explained in undergraduate courses of heat transfer by the Heisler/Gröber or by the Boelter/Gröber charts. These three charts pose some restrictions with respect to the applicable times. Additionally, the charts do not provide information about the time-dependent heat fluxes at the surface. Conversely, evaluation of spatio-temporal temperatures, time-dependent heat fluxes at the surface and total heat transfer rates can be easily done for the entire time domain with the network simulation method (NSM) in conjunction with the commercial code PSPICE. NSM relies on the existing physical analogy between the unsteady transport of electric current and the unsteady transport of unidirectional heat by conduction. This analogy has been named the RC analogy in the specialized literature. The code PSPICE simulates the electric circuits for a specific body together with the imposed boundary and initial conditions, and produces numerical results for the quantities of interest, such as: the spatio-temporal temperature distributions; the time-dependent heat flux distributions at the surface; and the total heat transfer.
Availability Analysis of Single-Component Systems with Various Failure and Repair Distributions
Authors: Rao Singiresu S. , Foster David E.
Published: February 2013

Due to the demands on the engineering profession, all products and systems are expected to satisfy certain availability requirements. The availability is a measure of the readiness of a product or system for use at any specified time. In this work, the availability of single-component systems is addressed. Monte Carlo simulation is used to estimate the availability of the system, assuming that the failure and repair times follow exponential, normal (Gaussian), and uniform probability distributions. The results are compared. Although the availability functions look very different, the steady-state availability is the same for all. Also, the availability of a component whose hazard function follows the bathtub curve is estimated, and it is found that the exponential distribution is not a good approximation, especially at the earliest stages of operation.
Thermal Engineering Design Project: A Calorimeter That Measures the Specific Heat of Aluminum – Part 2
Authors: Mullisen R. S.
Published: February 2013

A thermal engineering design project requiring the design, construction, and operation of a calorimeter that measures the specific heat of aluminum was assigned to a class of third-year mechanical engineering students. In a previous IJMEE paper, the same project was described, along with the author's electrically heated calorimeter that was constructed before the assignment was made. In the current paper, a completely different calorimeter design is described. The current calorimeter is a hollow aluminum cylinder fitted with a plug forming a watertight cavity. The cylinder is heated and allowed to cool in still air. Two tests were performed: one with water in the cavity and one without water in the cavity. The different cooling rates from the two tests allowed computation of the aluminum's specific heat. A class of junior (third-year) mechanical engineering students, working in teams, produced designs using electrically heated aluminum samples and calorimeters that mixed aluminum and water at initially different temperatures. The 16 student groups plus the author produced 113 data points with a mean specific heat value that deviated by 7.8% from a published value.
Quick-Return Mechanism Design and Analysis Projects
Authors: Podhorodeski Ron P. , Nokleby Scott B. , Wittchen Jonathan D.
Published: February 2013

Quick-return (QR) mechanisms feature different input durations for their working and return strokes. The time ratio ( TR) of a QR mechanism is the ratio of the change in input displacement during the working stroke to its change during the return stroke. Several basic types of mechanism have a QR action. These types include slider-crank and four-bar mechanisms. A project on QR mechanism design, within a first course on the theory of mechanisms, has been found to be effective for exposing students to concepts of mechanism design and analysis. This paper reviews basic QR mechanisms, presents a project problem and solution examples, and discusses the value of inclusion of such project problems within theory-of-mechanism courses.
Enhanced Learning of Rapid Prototyping Systems through Multimedia
Authors: Lim C. S. , Chua C. K. , Leong K. F. , Lau M. L. , Tan K. W.
Published: February 2013

Dedicated teachers around the world have continually sought to find better instructional strategies for their subjects. This paper presents the development of a multimedia application for teaching rapid prototyping to professionals and tertiary-level students. A CD-ROM was used as the instructional medium. This paper considers learning factors such as the organization and structure of the information, application of animations, visual aids and sound, the human—computer interface, and presentation styles, in relation to the CD-ROM's purpose of enhancing the education process for rapid prototyping technology.
Using the Learning Cycle to Develop Freshmen's Abilities to Design and Conduct Experiments
Authors: Lyons Jed S. , Brader John S.
Published: February 2013

A series of three laboratory experiments has been developed for first-semester freshmen mechanical engineering students at the University of South Carolina. The topical content of the experiments includes statics, solid mechanics, fluid mechanics and direct-current circuit analysis. Each experiment actively involves the students, is inexpensive, safe and can be performed during a 50-minute class period. The experiments have been designed using concepts from Kolb's learning cycle, problem-based learning and scaffolding. The experiment sequence has been successfully used to introduce the students to engineering fundamentals, to develop their abilities to design experiments, and to motivate them to learn computer applications for data analysis.
Assessing the Given–Find–Solution Method in an Undergraduate Thermodynamics Course
Authors: Sobek Durward K. , Cundy Vic A. , Briggeman Vicki L.
Published: February 2013

This paper describes the given–find–solution method as a general approach to solving engineering problems. An in-classroom study was conducted to provide evidence of its effectiveness in increasing, students' problem-solving proficiency. The target course was an undergraduate service thermodynamics course taught at Montana State University. Results indicate that the given—find—solution method seems to be effective for most students. The implications for assessment and methodological improvements are discussed.