Mech and Aerospace Engr
- APC 524/MAE 506/AST 506: Software Engineering for Scientific ComputingThe goal of this course is to teach basic tools and principles of writing good code, in the context of scientific computing. Specific topics include an overview of relevant compiled and interpreted languages, build tools and source managers, design patterns, design of interfaces, debugging and testing, profiling and improving performance, portability, and an introduction to parallel computing in both shared memory and distributed memory environments. The focus is on writing code that is easy to maintain and share with others. Students will develop these skills through a series of programming assignments and a group project.
- AST 551/MAE 525: General Plasma Physics IAn introductory course to plasma physics, with sample applications in fusion, space and astrophysics, semiconductor etching, microwave generation, plasma propulsion, high power laser propagation in plasma; characterization of the plasma state, Debye shielding, plasma and cyclotron frequencies, collision rates and mean-free paths, atomic processes, adiabatic invariance, orbit theory, magnetic confinement of single-charged particles, two-fluid description, magnetohydrodynamic waves and instabilities, heat flow, diffusion, kinetic description, and Landau damping. The course may be taken by undergraduates with permission of the instructor.
- CBE 430/MAE 430/MSE 430: Squishy Engineering: Using Soft Materials to Solve Hard ProblemsThe milk we drink in the morning (a colloidal dispersion), the gel we put into our hair (a polymer network), and the plaque that we try to scrub off our teeth (a biofilm) are all familiar examples of soft or "squishy" materials. Such materials also hold great promise in helping to solve engineering challenges such as water remediation, therapeutic development/delivery, and the development of new coatings, displays, formulations, foods, and biomaterials. This class covers fundamental aspects of the science of soft materials, presented within the context of these challenges, with guest speakers to describe new applications of soft materials.
- CEE 102A/EGR 102A/MAE 102A: Engineering in the Modern WorldLectures and readings focus on bridges, railroads, power plants, steamboats, telegraph, highways, automobiles, aircraft, computers, and the microchip. Historical analysis provides a basis for studying societal impact by focusing on scientific, political, ethical, and aesthetic aspects in the evolution of engineering over the past two and a half centuries. The precepts and the papers will focus historically on engineering ideas including the social and political issues raised by these innovations and how they were shaped by society as well as how they helped shape culture.
- CEE 102B/EGR 102B/MAE 102B: Engineering in the Modern WorldLectures and readings focus on bridges, railroads, power plants, steamboats, telegraph, highways, automobiles, aircraft, computers, and the microchip. We study some of the most important engineering innovations since the Industrial Revolution. The laboratory centers on technical analysis that is the foundation for design of these major innovations. The experiments are modeled after those carried out by the innovators themselves, whose ideas are explored in the light of the social environment within which they worked.
- CEE 345/STC 345/MSE 345/MAE 327: Origami EngineeringThis class acquaints the student with the state-of-art concepts and algorithms to design and analyze origami systems (assemblies, structures, tessellations, etc). Students will learn how to understand, create and transform geometries by folding and unfolding concepts, and thus apply origami concepts to solve engineering and societal problems. In addition, using origami as a tool, we will outreach to some fundamental concepts in differential geometry.
- CEE 361/MAE 325/MSE 331: Matrix Structural Analysis and Introduction to Finite-Element MethodsThis course presents the Matrix Structural Analysis (MSA) and Finite Element Methods (FEM) in a cohesive framework. The first half of the semester is devoted to MSA topics: derivation of truss, beam and frame elements; assembly and partitioning of the global stiffness matrix; and equivalent nodal loads. The second half covers the following FEM topics: strong and weak forms of boundary value problems including steady-state heat conduction, and linear elasticity, Galerkin approximations, constant strain triangle, isoparametric quads. Modern topics, such as polygonal elements, will be introduced. MATLAB is used for computer assignments.
- CEE 545/MAE 556/MSE 535: Origami EngineeringThis class acquaints the student with the state-of-art concepts and algorithms to design and analyze origami systems (assemblies, structures, tessellations, etc). Students learn how to understand, create and transform geometries by folding and unfolding concepts, and thus apply origami concepts to solve engineering and societal problems. In addition, using origami as a tool, we outreach to some fundamental concepts in differential geometry.
- ECE 539/COS 512/MAE 572: Special Topics in Data and Information Science: Safety-Critical Robotic SystemsThe course covers the mathematical foundations of dynamical system safety analysis and modern algorithmic approaches for robotic decision making in safety-critical contexts. The focus is on safe robot learning, multiagent systems, and interaction with humans, paying special attention to uncertainty and the reality gap between mathematical models and the physical world.
- ENE 419/MAE 419: Negative Emission TechnologiesThis course examines the field of carbon capture, conversion, and storage. The course is interdisciplinary and surveys fundamental aspects of combustion, kinetics, material science, thermodynamics and electrochemistry. The class will survey the working principles of existing and emerging technologies that aim to make a critical impact on decarbonizing energy systems. Topics related to carbon capture and negative emission technologies will be discussed.
- ENE 515/MAE 537: Principles of Energy ConversionThe class examines the fundamental physics of energy conversion in thermal (Carnot engines) and chemical (Van't Hoff engines) systems. The analysis of these conversion devices is oriented toward fundamental physical principles and identification of entropy production/mitigation and efficiency optimization. Both models of cycles and fluxes are presented as well as endo- and exo-reversible models. This analysis framework is used to study principles and limitations of thermoelectric conversion devices, solar cells and fuel cells. Topics include high temperature conversion systems i.e. thermionic and magnetohydrodynamic power generation systems.
- GEO 425/MAE 425: Introduction to Ocean Physics for ClimateThe study of the oceans as a major influence on the atmosphere and the world environment. The contrasts between the properties of the upper and deep oceans; the effects of stratification; the effect of rotation; the wind-driven gyres; the thermohaline circulation.
- MAE 221/ENE 221: ThermodynamicsHeat and work in physical systems. Concepts of energy conversion and entropy, primarily from a macroscopic viewpoint. Efficiency of different thermodynamic cycles, with applications to everyday life including both renewable and classical energy sources. In the laboratory, students will carry out experiments in the fields of analog electronics and thermodynamics.
- MAE 305/MAT 391/EGR 305/CBE 305: Mathematics in Engineering IA treatment of the theory and applications of ordinary differential equations with an introduction to partial differential equations. The objective is to provide the student with an ability to solve standard problems in this field.
- MAE 322: Mechanical DesignThis course builds on the technical foundations established in MAE 321, and extends the scope to include a range of advanced mechanism designs. Students, working in teams, will be challenged to design and fabricate a robotic system that will draw upon multidisciplinary engineering elements. The robot tasks will be associated with search and rescue operations. CAD, CAE, and CAM will be utilized in the design/simulation/prototype process. Labs are designed to reinforce and expand CAD and CAE skills. A final competition will be held among the design teams.
- MAE 324/MSE 324: Structure and Properties of MaterialsRelates to the structures, properties, processing and performance of different materials including metals, alloys, polymers, composites, and ceramics. This course also discusses how to select materials for engineering applications. This course satisfies the MAE departmental requirement in materials as well as the MSE certificate core requirement.
- MAE 331: Aircraft Flight DynamicsIntroduction to the performance, stability, and control of aircraft. Fundamentals of configuration aerodynamics. Methods for analyzing the dynamics of physical systems. Characterization of modes of motion and desirable flying qualities.
- MAE 335: Fluid DynamicsThe course is focused on compressible and incompressible inviscid fluid flow. Compressible subsonic and supersonic flows are studied in the first half of the course. The remaining portion of the semester addresses low-speed, incompressible fluid flows and aerodynamics of two and three-dimensional wings and bodies. Concepts of thrust, lift and drag are introduced and applied.
- MAE 339: Junior Independent WorkStudent selects subject and advisor - defines problem to be studied and proposes work plan. A list of possible subjects of particular interest to faculty and staff members is provided. Written report and oral presentation at end of semester to faculty, staff, fellow students and guests. 339 Fall Term project; 340 Spring Term project.
- MAE 339D: Junior Independent Work with DesignCourse similar to MAE 339-340. Principal difference is that the project must incorporate aspects and principals of design for a system, product, vehicle, device, apparatus, or other design element. Written report and oral presentation at end of semester to faculty, staff, fellow students and guests. 339D Fall Term project; 340D Spring Term project.
- MAE 345/COS 346/ECE 345: Introduction to RoboticsRobotics is a rapidly-growing field with applications including unmanned aerial vehicles, autonomous cars, and robotic manipulators. This course will provide an introduction to the basic theoretical and algorithmic principles behind robotic systems. The course will also allow students to get hands-on experience through project-based assignments on quadrotors. In the final project, students will implement a vision-based obstacle avoidance controller for a quadrotor. Topics include motion planning, control, localization, mapping, and vision.
- MAE 416/EEB 416: Bioinspired DesignThe bioinspired design course offers interdisciplinary, advanced design and critical thinking experience. Students will work in teams to integrate biological knowledge into the engineering design process. The course uses case studies to show how biological solutions can be transferred into engineering design. The case studies will include themes such as locomotion, materials, and sensing. By the end of the course, students will be able to use analogical design concepts to engineer a prototype based on biological function.
- MAE 418/ARC 418/ENE 428: Virtual and Augmented Reality for Engineers, Scientists, and ArchitectsVR/AR can enable engineers, scientists, and architects to plan and conduct their work in fundamentally new ways, visualize and communicate their findings more effectively, and work in environments that are otherwise difficult, impossible, or too costly to experience in person. This course explores the basic concepts of effective VR/AR experiences, builds skills needed to develop and support innovative science, engineering, or architecture projects. In the second half of the semester, working in small teams, students develop, implement VR/AR projects of their choice.
- MAE 433: Automatic Control SystemsTo develop an understanding of feedback principles in the control of dynamic systems, and to gain experience in analyzing and designing control systems in a laboratory setting.
- MAE 439: Senior Independent WorkSenior independent work is the culminating experience for the mechanical and aerospace engineering programs. Students select a subject and adviser, define the problem to be studied and propose a work plan. Projects include elements of engineering design, defined as devising a system, component, or process to meet desired needs. A list of possible subjects of particular interest to faculty and staff members is provided. Students must submit a written final report and present their results to faculty, staff, fellow students, and guests.
- MAE 501/APC 501/CBE 509: Mathematical Methods of Engineering Analysis IMethods of mathematical analysis for the solution of problems in physics and engineering. Topics include an introduction to linear algebra, matrices and their application, eigenvalue problems,ordinary differential equations (initial and boundary value, eigenvalue problems), nonlinear ordinary differential equations, stability, bifurcations, Sturm-Liouville theory, Green's functions, elements of series solutions and special functions, Laplace and Fourier transform methods, and solutions via perturbation methods, partial differential equation including self-similar solution, separation of variables and method of characteristics.
- MAE 503: Directed ResearchUnder the direction of a faculty member, the student carries out a one-semester research project chosen jointly by the student and the faculty member. Without prior approval of the Director Graduate Studies, directed research can only be taken during the first year of study. At the beginning of the semester, students must submit the topic of the project and the faculty advisor to the Graduate Office. The project culminates in a final presentation in the style of a conference talk at the end of the semester.
- MAE 513: Independent Project IIndependent project for Master of Engineering students under the direction of a faculty advisor. The project topic and faculty advisor must be sent to the Graduate Office at the beginning of the semester. The project culminates in a oral presentation at the end of the semester
- MAE 516: Bioinspired DesignThis bioinspired design course offers interdisciplinary, advanced design and critical thinking experience. Students work in teams to integrate biological knowledge into the engineering design process. The course uses case studies to show how biological solutions can be transferred into engineering design. The case studies include themes such as locomotion, materials, and sensing. By the end of the course, students are able to use analogical design concepts to engineer a prototype based on biological function.
- MAE 518/ARC 516/ENE 528: Virtual and Augmented Reality for Scientists, Engineers, and ArchitectsVR/AR can enable engineers, scientists, and architects to plan and conduct their work in fundamentally new ways, visualize and communicate their findings more effectively, and work in environments that are otherwise difficult, impossible, or too costly to experience in person. This course explores the basic concepts of effective VR/AR experiences and builds the skills needed to develop and support innovative science, engineering, or architecture projects. In the second half of the semester, working in small teams, students develop and implement VR/AR projects of their choice.
- MAE 521/MSE 561: Optics and LasersThe course introduces laser essentials, Fourier optics, optical pulses, and laser diagnostics through lectures and practical exercises. Topics include ray optics, wave optics, optical Fourier transform, schlieren imaging, ultrafast optics and material dispersion. Optical component kits are provided for practical exercises aimed at the design and construction of an optical system to focus, collimate, and expand light beams with convex lenses, observe aberrations, perform imaging, study diffraction patterns in the rear focal plane of a convex lens, manipulate light in the Fourier domain, and use schlieren technique to visualize air flows.
- MAE 527: Physics of GasesThis course covers fundamental concepts needed to comprehend research literature related to the physics of gases. The first part covers concepts of statistical mechanics (ensemble average, and partition functions) and their applications to the calculation of the thermodynamic properties of gases. The second part deals with the kinetic theory of gases through the Boltzmann equation and its solutions, from which we derive the Navier-Stokes equations and the associated transport coefficients. The final part introduces elements of wave/quantum mechanics theory and focuses on its application to interpret atomic spectra.
- MAE 532: Combustion TheoryAdvanced topics in combustion: explosion limits of reactive mixtures; low-temperature chemistry and flames; methods in computational combustion chemistry (CSP, DRG, CEMA); canonical theory of flames; flame-front instability and propagation in quiescent and turbulent flows; boundary layer combustion and flame stabilization; supersonic reacting waves; detonation initiation, structure and propagation
- MAE 539: Advanced Topics in Combustion I: Interdisciplinary Topics in Reactive FlowReactive flow such as combustion and non-equilibrium plasma is an interdisciplinary research area that address the challenging issues in low carbon energy conversion and chemical manufacturing. This course provided an overview of the fundamentals, research frontiers, and applications of interdisciplinary aspects of combustion and non-equilibrium plasma. The course discusses combustion and plasma chemistry, dynamics of cool flames, warm flames, and hot flames; non-equilibrium plasma discharges such as glow, corona, and microwave plasmas.
- MAE 542: Advanced DynamicsPrinciples and methods for formulating and analyzing mathematical models of physical systems; Newtonian, Lagrangian, and Hamiltonian formulations of particle and rigid and elastic body dynamics; canonical transformations, Hamilton-Jacobi theory; and integrable and nonintegrable systems. Additional topics are explored at the discretion of the instructor.
- MAE 545: Special Topics in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering: Collective Intelligence: Dynamics and Control of Multi-Agent SystemsThis course covers mathematical models and methods for analysis and design of decentralized dynamics of multi-agent systems, with applicability to systems ranging from multi-robot teams to animal aggregations. Collective intelligence will be defined as achievable performance of the system, as compared to that of agents on their own, in activities such as decision-making among options and monitoring or search of a spatially distributed resource. Rigorous approaches will be explored for analyzing and leveraging the influence on system dynamics of information exchange, coordination, and cooperation.
- MAE 549: Introduction to RoboticsRobotics is a rapidly-growing field with applications including unmanned aerial vehicles, autonomous cars, and robotic manipulators. This course provides an introduction to the basic theoretical and algorithmic principles behind robotic systems. The course also allows students to get hands-on experience through project-based assignments on quadrotors. In the final project, students implement a vision-based obstacle avoidance controller for a quadrotor. Topics include motion planning, control, localization, mapping, and vision.
- MAE 551: Fluid MechanicsAn introduction to fluid mechanics: from a rigorous derivation of basic conservation laws in integral and differential form to the exploration of flow physics. The course tackles foundational topics in mass, momentum and energy transport as well as classical topics including vorticity, potential flow, vortex dynamics, and brief introductions to boundary layers and turbulence.
- MAE 557: Simulation and Modeling of Fluid FlowsOverview and fundamentals of numerical algorithms and models for computational fluid dynamics. Numerical approaches discussed include finite difference, finite volume, finite element, and spectral methods on both structured and unstructured grids. Coverage includes asymptotically zero Mach number (incompressible), low-speed compressible, and high-speed compressible flows. Introduction to modeling of turbulent flows.
- MAE 559: Advanced Topics in Fluid Mechanics I: Classical Papers in Fluid Mechanics and their Modern ApplicationsFluid dynamics is filled with classical research problems that remain of interest because of their broad applicability. We survey several classical topics showing connections where possible to modern research questions. The topics include themes from complex fluids and multiphase fluid dynamics. Students read research papers, both classical and modern, and make presentations to the class. Wherever possible analytical insights are shared.
- MAE 567/CBE 568: Crowd Control: Understanding and Manipulating Collective Behaviors and Swarm DynamicsCollective behaviors are all around us, from bird flocking, to mosh pit dynamics, to how the cells in our bodies work together. In this course, we explore not only how to understand and quantify these behaviors, but also how we can start to engineer them to reduce traffic, heal faster, develop new materials, and introduce new robotics approaches. The course spans three modules: hands-on training in analyzing real-world swarming systems; fundamental concepts underlying collective behaviors; and key case studies in manipulating these systems.
- MAE 573/ENE 539: Applied Optimization for Energy Systems EngineeringIn this course students learn practical applications of optimization methods in energy systems engineering. Students also gain familiarity with techniques via survey of canonical problems in power systems operations and planning. The course teaches practical model development, including formulation and implementation of linear and mixed integer programs in an algebraic programming language. The second half surveys advanced topics, including: managing dimensionality in large-scale problems, technology evaluation, policy evaluation, decision making under uncertainty, and multi-objective optimization.
- MAE 597: Graduate Seminar in Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringA seminar of internal and external speakers on a diverse range of topics relevant to Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering including Applied Physics; Biomechanics and Biomaterials; Control, Robotics, and Dynamical Systems; Fluid Mechanics; Materials Science; and Propulsion and Energy Sciences. There is one seminar per week on Friday and a subsequent discussion on Monday. All first-year PhD students are required to participate.
- MSE 501/MAE 561/CEE 561/CBE 514: Introduction to MaterialsEmphasizes the connection between microscale features of hard and soft materials and their properties. Topics include crystal structures and defects, phase diagrams and transformations, polymer conformation and solutions, and mechanical and electrical properties. This course combines traditional lecture with active learning approaches like peer-peer instruction, social annotation, and discussion.