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Descriptors:
Foreign Countries; Teaching Methods; Curriculum Development; Class Activities; Interdisciplinary Approach; Course Descriptions; Course Evaluation; Interviews; Student Attitudes; Electronics; Electromechanical Technology; Energy; Mathematical Models; Problem Based Learning; Engineering Education; Physics; Mathematics; Competition; Sustainable Development; College Students; College Instruction; Elective Courses; Minicourses

Abstract:
In this paper, a course on applied superconductivity is described. The course structure is outlined and the learning objectives and the learning activities are described. The teaching was multidisciplinary given by four departments each contributing with their expertise. Being applied superconductivity, the focus was on an application, which could benefit from using superconductors. The application used in this course was superconducting generators for direct drive wind turbines. As part of the course, the students built a small-scale superconducting machine and set up FE (finite element) models of that machine as well as large-scale wind turbine generators with superconductors and PM (permanent magnet) generators, too. The course was assessed by a conference contribution and reports from the students. The quality of the course was evaluated by interviewing the students after the course had finished. The students were very pleased with the course and gave suggestions of how the course could be improved further. (Contains 1 table and 9 figures.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Foreign Countries; Active Learning; Student Projects; Case Method (Teaching Technique); Electronics; Electromechanical Technology; Automation; Computer Software; Computer Assisted Design; Educational Technology; Computer Assisted Instruction; Instructional Design; Engineering Education; Instructional Effectiveness; College Students; College Instruction; Course Evaluation; Questionnaires

Abstract:
The design of the drive system for an automatic machine and its correct sizing is a very important competence for an electrical or mechatronic engineer. This requires knowledge that crosses the fields of electrical engineering, electronics and mechanics, as well as the skill to choose commercial components based upon their technical documentation. A good way to help students to achieve these competencies is to set them a project-oriented task, consisting of a real case study they have to solve. The aim is to give to students enrolled in the courses "Functional Mechanical Design" and "Dynamics of Machines" at the Polytechnic of Milan, Milan, Italy, the opportunity to put their knowledge and skills into practice on a real industrial case regarding the design of an automatic machine, with particular attention being paid to the problem of the analysis and synthesis of the drive system. (Contains 12 figures, 2 tables and 2 footnotes.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Descriptors:
Computer Assisted Instruction; Synchronous Communication; Programming; Computer Science Education; Computer Simulation; Engineering Education; Feedback (Response); Assignments; Student Projects; Experiments; Hands on Science; Undergraduate Students; Course Evaluation; Large Group Instruction; Educational Technology; Teaching Methods; Instructional Effectiveness; College Instruction; Student Surveys; Statistical Analysis; Electronics; Electromechanical Technology

Abstract:
This paper presents a low-cost hands-on experiment for a classical undergraduate controls course for non-electrical engineering majors. The setup consists of a small dc electrical motor attached to one of the ends of a light rod. The motor drives a 2-in propeller and allows the rod to swing. Angular position is measured by a potentiometer attached to the pivot point. A custom-designed circuit board produces the controlled voltage input to the motor. The target board is powered and communicates with the PC through its USB port using a virtual RS-232 port. A simple MATLAB/Simulink module has been created to read the pendulum angle and send a command signal to the motor. The module is based on Real-time Windows Target software, which allows a sampling rate of up to 200 Hz. Students are able to design and test classical PID and phase lead-lag controllers, as well as modern controllers, including state-space controller design combined with feedback linearization. A semester-long series of assignments is described that can be carried out without the need for a specialized laboratory or teaching assistants. The project was tested in a classical control systems design class of senior-level mechanical engineering students. Student feedback and survey data on the effectiveness of the modules are also presented. (Contains 15 figures, 1 table and 1 footnote.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Outcomes of Education; Competition; Curriculum Development; Manufacturing; Computer Assisted Design; Student Projects; Computer Software; Research and Development; Course Descriptions; School Business Relationship; Curriculum Implementation; Educational Objectives; Program Descriptions; Federal Aid; Educational Technology; Computer Simulation; Computer Assisted Instruction; Instructional Design; Engineering Education; Teaching Methods; Instructional Effectiveness; College Students; College Instruction; Electronics; Electromechanical Technology

Abstract:
This paper describes the goals, pedagogical system, and educational outcomes of a three-semester curriculum in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The sequence takes engineering students with no formal MEMS training and gives them the skills to participate in cutting-edge MEMS research and development. The evolution of the curriculum from in-house fabrication facilities to an industry-standard foundry process affords an opportunity to examine the pedagogical benefits of the latter approach. Outcomes that are assessed include the number of students taking the classes, the quality of work produced by students, and the research that has emanated from class projects. Three key elements of the curriculum are identified: 1) extensive use of virtual design and process simulation software tools; 2) fabrication of student-designed devices for physical characterization and testing; and 3) integration of a student design competition. This work strongly leveraged the university outreach activities of Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) and the SNL SUMMiT MEMS design and fabrication system. SNL provides state-of-the-art design tools and device fabrication and hosts a yearly nationwide student design competition. Student MEMS designs developed using computer-aided design (CAD) and finite element analysis (FEA) software are fabricated at SNL and returned on 18-mm[superscript 2] die modules for characterization and testing. One such module may contain a dozen innovative student projects. Important outcomes include an increase in enrollment in the introductory MEMS class, external research funding and archival journal publications arising from student designs, and consistently high finishes in the SNL competition. Since the SNL offerings are available to any US college or university, this curriculum is transportable in its current form. (Contains 2 tables and 2 figures.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Descriptors:
Regression (Statistics); Concept Formation; Foreign Countries; Electromechanical Technology; Engineering Education; Engineering Technology; Problem Sets; Problem Solving; Science Process Skills; Introductory Courses; Achievement Gains; Comparative Testing; Instructional Effectiveness; Correlation

Abstract:
Complex multistep problem exercises are one way to enhance engineering students' learning of electromagnetics (EM). This study investigates whether exposure to complex problem exercises during an introductory EM course improves students' conceptual and procedural knowledge. The performance in complex problem exercises is compared to prior success in pre-engineering mathematics and physics courses and with success in the final exam. Students' conceptual knowledge is evaluated with the Conceptual Survey of Electricity and Magnetism (CSEM). The data (N =133) are collected from an undergraduate static field theory course at Helsinki University of Technology, Espoo, Finland. The data are analyzed using correlation and linear regression. The study shows that the complex problem exercises do not improve conceptual understanding of EM. However, complex problem exercises significantly enhance the students' procedural knowledge. In addition, students found problem exercises useful and relevant for their learning. (Contains 2 tables and 1 figure.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Foreign Countries; Laboratory Training; Theory Practice Relationship; Engineering; Engineering Education; Communications; Energy; Networks; Electromechanical Technology; Curriculum Development

Abstract:
This paper discusses the planning and development of student training and activities for the Powerline Communications Laboratory at the Technical Education Institute (TEI), Patras, Greece. Powerline communications is currently an active area of research and development that combines three separate specializations from the standard training of electrical engineers: communications, power, and control systems. A course on powerline communications toward the end of the standard electrical engineer's training provides a useful practice in applying what the students have already been taught in an area that has high potential in modern consumer electronics. The planning of suitable training activities for the students takes into account their background and training at that stage of the course and combines concepts and practices common to communication, power, and control systems. In detail, the training activities involve: (1) familiarization and training with currently available market products for automation/control and broadband powerline communications; (2) open-source software that can be used in the design and simulation of such systems; and (3) fabrication and testing of simple passive filter circuits that can be used for signal coupling into the mains power lines for custom applications. (Contains 5 figures, 3 tables, and 10 footnotes.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Descriptors:
Honors Curriculum; Physics; Electromechanical Technology; Laboratory Safety; Laboratory Procedures; Laboratory Experiments; Science Activities; Science Course Improvement Projects; Science Equipment; Tactile Adaptation; Program Descriptions; Teaching Experience

Abstract:
Electrospinning has been used to create nanofibers for filtration devices, tissue engineering, and protective clothing. Although electrospinning is now widely studied, because of the expensive equipment required and the advanced nature of this topic, it is not commonly found in high school science labs. Through grants from the Ohio State University and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the author was able to obtain the necessary equipment and adapt it for use in the high school science classroom. This article describes the authors' experience with electrospinning in an 11th- and 12th-grade Honors Physics class. (Contains 3 figures and 1 online resource.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Foreign Countries; Industry; Computer Simulation; Models; Electrical Occupations; Electromechanical Technology; Behavior; Engineering; Energy; Magnets; Equations (Mathematics); Undergraduate Students

Abstract:
Ac-powered contactors are extensively used in industry in applications such as automatic electrical devices, motor starters, and heaters. In this work, a practical session that allows students to model and simulate the dynamic behavior of ac-powered electromechanical contactors is presented. Simulation is carried out using a rigorous parametric model of the ac contactor that avoids simplification assumptions and is thoroughly explained. The goal of this practical is to introduce students to the topic of dynamic simulation of real devices. It covers both the transient and the steady-state response of the electromechanical system under study. The proposed methodology is flexible and not particularly time-consuming, and it allows the students easily to change the electromechanical constants of the contactor they are studying. The results of the simulations were compared with experimental data acquired by the students; a close similarity between real and simulated data was observed. The Technical University of Catalonia (UPC), Spain, has incorporated the simulation methodology proposed in this paper in a practical session of an electrical engineering course. (Contains 12 figures.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Foreign Countries; Engineering Education; Outreach Programs; College School Cooperation; High School Students; College Students; Student Projects; Active Learning; Electromechanical Technology; Career Awareness; Enrichment Activities

Abstract:
If we aim to enhance the interest of students in engineering and therefore produce the best engineers, it is essential to strengthen the pipeline to high school education. This paper discusses several outreach activities undertaken by the Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Education, University of Ottawa (UO), Ottawa, ON, Canada, to help the transition between high school and engineering education and to make students aware of the engineering profession. At the heart of these activities is mechatronics education, which demands an interdisciplinary approach, connects to fundamental math and science concepts, and promotes collaborative project-based learning (PBL). Connected to this focus, a multifaceted program of outreach activities has been initiated. The program includes creation of design-simulate-and-build projects by engineering and high school students, as well as an interactive presentation program whereby engineering students connect with high school students through the sharing of projects that they create in their engineering courses. The survey results indicate that for the high school students, these programs promote students' awareness of engineering and how the mathematics and science they take in school connects to engineering concepts. For the engineering students, they are provided with a meaningful context within which to share their projects and explain their own understanding of engineering principles. (Contains 4 tables.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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Descriptors:
Electronic Learning; Engineering Education; Distance Education; Technical Education; Laboratory Experiments; Experiential Learning; Hands on Science; Database Management Systems; Client Server Architecture; Gateway Systems; Virtual Classrooms; Electromechanical Technology; Engineering Technology; Teaching Methods

Abstract:
Attaining excellence in technical education is a worthy challenge to any life goal. Distance learning opportunities make these goals easier to reach with added quality. Distance learning in engineering education is possible only through successful implementations of remote laboratories in a learning-by-doing environment. This paper presents one such technology to carry out laboratory experiments from remote locations. The technology is demonstrated by handling the web interface, which supports the remote experimentation on communication circuits, power system and an embedded board. The implemented system environment facilitates users to perform the experiment remotely and efficiently using only a commonly available, user-friendly web browser. It describes the ongoing research in this area exploiting current telematics techniques, which supports remote experimentation with real hardware via the Internet. (Contains 8 figures and 6 tables.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

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