1993 Catalog Data: 14:650:485 Topics in Mechanical Engineering (3 credits). Spring Semester 1994.

One or two topics of current importance and interest studied intensively. Topic examples: acoustics, combustion, energy conversion, refrigeration, urban engineering, and propulsion. Open only to senior mechanical engineering majors.

Textbook: No assigned text. Heavy use of texts from thermodynamics, heat transfer and fluid mechanics

References:

• McQuiston and Parker, Heating, Ventilating And Air Conditioning
• Nadel et al., Energy Efficient Motor Systems
• Hodge, B. K., Analysis and Design of Energy Systems

Faculty: Michael R. Muller, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Goals:

This course presents an overview of current advancements in the efficiency of manufacturing systems. The efficiency is broken down into the standard areas of energy management, waste minimization, pollution prevention and direct productivity enhancements. The goal of the course is to demonstrate how fundamental principles of engineering science are used to redesign and improve manufacturing processes.

Prerequisites by topics:

1. Thermodynamics
2. Fluid mechanics
3. Heat Transfer (at least concurrent registration)
4. Electrical Engineering
   

Topics:

1. Industrial Process Heating (7 classes)
2. Industrial Process Cooling (5 classes)
3. Motor Systems (5 classes)
4. Waste Minimization(7 classes)
5. Process Improvements and ReEngineering (4 classes)

Computer Usage:

1. All homework assignments are given electronically. Data for solutions are provided on-line. Several problems require interactive use of datasets
2. One mini-design project requires 3-dimensional plotting of system performance.
   

Design Projects:

One mini-design project involving design of industrial cooling system. Students submit individual reports. One major design project. Student groups ( 5 students) select a nearby manufacturer, spend a day in the plant along with faculty and perform a detailed industrial assessment, develop process improvements and prepare a comprehensive assessment report.

ABET category:

Engineering Design: 1.5 credits or 50%

Engineering Science: 1.5 credits or 50%