Mech/Elec/Renewble Energy Engr

In this course we study solar radiation; theory of light; topics of heat transfer associated with solar energy; radiation characteristics of materials; collectors; energy storage; solar loads and the economics. The physics of voltaic systems will also be discussed. This course includes a design project.

The main objective of this course is to gain an elementary familiarity with energy; covering the concept; forms; resources; and its impact on the environment; all with an emphasis on the renewables. We discuss physics of energy; its different forms--mined and otherwise; the Sun; the Earth and the environment. The course includes a number of field trips.

This course is an introduction to power electronics with emphasis on applications such as energy conservation and renewable energy. Topics include introductory switching devices; devices for power electronics; and converter design and simulation. Basic concepts of DC-DC converters in continuous and discontinuous modes are included; along with design for motor drives and transformer-isolated switch-mode power supplies.

Design of VLSI circuits concentrating on CMOS technologies. Logic design; fabrication principles; CAD layout and introduction to VLSI systems architecture. Structured design emphasis will be with the concept of hierarchy. Design methodology will focus on design of VLSI subsystems using advanced hierarchical design tools including Verilog HDL. This will be in the form of class homework and short projects.

Advanced topics in Fluid mechanics: compressible flows; boundary layers; potential flow; and turbomachinery.

Principles of thermodynamics; fluid mechanics; and heat transfer are applied to the analysis; design; and computer simulation of thermal systems. Types of systems include power plants; heating and air conditioning; heat exchangers; and piping systems.

In this course we explore the design fundamentals of alternative energy vehicles including electric and hybrid vehicles. Topics covered include power electronics; power systems; drivetrain; component modeling; battery systems; supervisory control and fault diagnosis. We rely heavily on model-based design including Simulink; with an emphasis on electric and hybrid vehicles.

This course covers steady and transient-state analysis and controls of power systems. Steady-state analysis such as power flows; optimal power flows; and unit commitment will be discussed. Transient-state analysis such as symmetrical/unsymmetrical faults; transient stability will be discussed.