Engineering Commons^™

Open Source Low-Cost Power Monitoring System, Shane W. Oberloier, Joshua M. Pearce

Joshua M. Pearce

This study presents an entirely open-source, low-cost power monitoring system capable of many types of measurements including both loads and supplies such as solar photovoltaic systems. In addition, the system can be fabricated using only open source software and hardware. The design revolves around the Digital Universal Energy Logger (DUEL) Node, which is responsible for reading and properly scaling the voltage and current of a particular load, and then serializing it via an on-board ATTiny85 chip. The configuration of the DUEL node allows for custom sensitivity ranges, and can handle up to 50 A and 300 V. Up to 127 …

Educating The Space Scientists At Embry-Riddle Through Design, Build And Fly Rocketry Experience, Pedro Llanos, Robert E. Haley, Sathya Gangadharan

Pedro J. Llanos (www.AstronauticsLlanos.com)

Plasma Research Paper.Docx, Katrina Montfort

katrina montfort

“Whole-Brained” Engineering Education In Undergraduate Studies At The University Of Dayton, Kylie Moellering

Kylie Moellering

Harnessing Wastewater For Renewable Energy (2013-2), Aaron Adalja, Chalida U-Tapao

Aaron Adalja

This case study explores the options for using wastewater to produce renewable energy in the context of a public wastewater treatment plant. It provides an opportunity for students to synthesize knowledge from resource economics, engineering, environmental science, agriculture, and public policy to develop a transdisciplinary approach to a socio-environmental issue. The case is designed for upper division undergraduate courses in resource economics or environmental engineering, but several modifications are provided graduate course applications. Students assume the role of a newly hired analyst at a consulting firm in Washington, DC, that specializes in renewable energy solutions. They are charged with proposing …

Driven By Beliefs: Understanding Challenges Physical Science Teachers Face When Integrating Engineering And Physics, Emily A. Dare, Joshua A. Ellis, Gillian H. Roehrig

Joshua A. Ellis

It is difficult to ignore the increased use of technological innovations in today’s world, which has led to various calls for the integration of engineering into K-12 science standards. The need to understand how engineering is currently being brought to science classrooms is apparent and necessary in order to address these calls for integration. This multiphase, mixed-methods study investigated the classroom practices and beliefs of high school physical science teachers following an intensive professional development on physics and engineering integration. Classroom observations showed that teachers new to incorporating engineering into their physical science classrooms often struggled to maintain focus on …

Determining Graduation Rates In Engineering For Community College Transfer Students Using Data Mining, Marcia Laugerman, Diane T. Rover, Mack C. Shelley, Steven K. Mickelson

Diane Rover

This study presents a unique synthesized set of data for community college students entering the university with the intention of earning a degree in engineering. Several cohorts of longitudinal data were combined with transcript-level data from both the community college and the university to measure graduation rates in engineering. The emphasis of the study is to determine academic variables that had significant correlations with graduation in engineering, and levels of these academic variables. The article also examines the utility of data mining methods for understanding the academic variables related to achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The practical purpose …

Work Integrated Learning In Stem In Australian Universities: Final Report: Submitted To The Office Of The Chief Scientist, Daniel Edwards, Kate Perkins, Jacob Pearce, Jennifer Hong

Kate Perkins

The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) undertook this study for the Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS). It explores the practice and application of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in STEM, with a particular focus on natural and physical sciences, information technology, and agriculture departments in Australian universities. The project involved a detailed ‘stocktake’ of WIL in practice in these disciplines, with collection of information by interview, survey instruments, consultation with stakeholders and literature reviews. Every university in Australia was visited as part of this project, with interviews and consultation sessions gathering insight from more than 120 academics and support …

A Second Language Acquisition Approach To Learning Programming Languages, Rachel Cunningham, Paula Sanjuan Espejo, Christina Frederick, Lulu Sun, Li Ding

Lulu Sun

The instructional design for modules in the study was based on the evidence that learning a programming language is analogous to students acquiring a second language, and utilized tools from Second Language Acquisition (SLA) theory. A programming language has vocabulary, syntax, grammar and communicative outcomes that must be sufficiently developed for the learner to function successfully in the environment that utilizes the language. This proposed study utilized an SLA approach to programming language in a blended learning environment. Modifications to the course pedagogy included breaking the course topics into video lessons focusing on basic programming vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. These …

Engineering Design: Representation And Reasoning, Clive Dym, David Brown

David C. Brown

This text demonstrates that symbolic representation, and related problem-solving methods, offer significant opportunities to clarify and articulate concepts of design to give a better framework for design research and education. This edition includes recent work on design reasoning, computational design, AI in design, and design cognition, with pointers to the current literature.

Experimental Validation Of Multistep Quantitative Crack Damage Assessment For Truss Structures By Finite Element Model Updating, Soon Lee, Gunjin Yun, Mohammad Rahimi, Shen Shang

Gunjin Yun

In this paper, a multistep damage quantification method has been experimentally validated by quantifying crack damage of load-carrying members of truss structures based on experimental vibration records. Damage quantifications are still challenging tasks for difficulties in interpreting response signals measured from engineering structures. Open crack depth is parameterized as a damage variable. The open crack in Euler–Bernoulli beam element is modeled by introducing local flexibility coefficients to the uncracked beam element with joint rotational flexibility. Mode shapes and natural frequencies measured from experimental modal testing of a damaged laboratory-size truss bridge are used in the finite element model updating for …

The Fracture Behavior Of An Al–Mg–Si Alloy During Cyclic Fatigue, Diya Azzam, Craig Menzemer, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

In this paper, is presented and discussed the cyclic fracture behavior of the Al–Mg–Si alloy 6063 that is a candidate used in luminaire light poles. The light poles were subject to fatigue deformation. Test sections were taken from the failed region of the light pole and carefully examined in a scanning electron microscope with the objective of rationalizing the macroscopic fracture mode and intrinsic micromechanisms governing fracture under cyclic loading. The fatigue fracture surface of the alloy revealed distinct regions of early microscopic crack growth, stable crack growth and unstable crack growth and overload. An array of fine striations was …

The Quasi-Static Deformation, Failure, And Fracture Behavior Of Titanium Alloy Gusset Plates Containing Bolt Holes, Therese Hurtuk, Craig Menzemer, Anil Patnaik, Tirumalai Srivatsan, Kannan Manigandan, T. Quick

Craig Menzemer

In this article, the influence of bolt holes, specifically their number and layout on strength, deformation, and final fracture behavior of titanium alloy gusset plates under the influence of an external load is presented and discussed. Several plates having differences in both the number and layout of the bolt holes were precision machined and then deformed under quasi-static loading. The specific influence of number of bolt holes and their layout on maximum load-carrying capability and even fracture load was determined. The conjoint influence of bolt number, bolt layout pattern, nature of loading, contribution from local stress concentration, and intrinsic microstructural …

A Study To Evaluate And Understand The Response Of Aluminum Alloy 2026 Subjected To Tensile Deformation, Daniel Lam, Craig Menzemer, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

The strain concentration factors were determined for aluminum alloy 2026 in the T3511 temper using multi-hole structural coupon specimens. Samples of the alloy were evaluated for both the 6.25 mm (0.25 in.) thick and 10 mm (0.4 in.) thick specimens and having widths of 50 mm (2 in.) and 100 mm (4 in.), respectively. For the case of the specimens that were 50 mm in width the mechanical tests were conducted for both the open hole and filled hole conditions and the corresponding strain concentration value was determined. Threaded fasteners having collars were used for the case of the filled …

The Bolt Bearing Response And Tensile Deformation Capacity Of Plates Made From A Titanium Alloy, Nicholas Tinl, Craig Menzemer, Anil Patnaik, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

In this article, the bearing capacity and elongation characteristics of bolt holes in a titanium alloy (i.e., Ti-6Al-4V) deformed in uniaxial tension is presented and discussed. The specific role played by bolt hole confinement on bearing capacity is highlighted. The nature of final fracture is examined and the intrinsic features present on the fracture surface are rationalized in concurrence with macroscopic mechanical response. The behavior of the candidate alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) is compared with conventionally preferred and chosen candidate materials steel and aluminum alloys. An empirical relationship suitable for purpose of structural design is proposed.

An Investigation And Understanding Of The Mechanical Response Of Palmyrah Timber, Hatim Sobier, Craig Menzemer, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

The Palmyrah tree flourishes in tropical areas around South East Asia, and particularly in Sri Lanka. Palmyrah is an important economic resource for the region, and has found use in structural applications for both residential dwellings and commercial buildings. While there is a great deal of local field experience with Palmyrah, the mechanical properties have not been well characterized or understood. In an effort to assist engineers with the design and efficient use of the timber, a study was undertaken to evaluate the mechanical response of Palmyrah and develop estimates of design allowable properties. Properties evaluated include static bending strength, …

Understanding The Mechanical Response Of Built-Up Welded Beams Made From Commercially Pure Titanium And A Titanium Alloy, Anil Patnaik, Narendra Poondla, Craig Menzemer, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

During the last two decades, titanium has gradually grown in stature, strength and significance to take on the recognition of being a modern and high performance metal that is noticeably stronger and concurrently lighter than the most widely chosen and used steels in a spectrum of industrial applications. Technological innovations have necessitated reduction of part weight, cost and lead time, including concurrent enhancement of performance of structural parts and components made using titanium and its alloys. This has provided the impetus to develop economically viable structural design methodologies and specifications, while at the same time bringing forth innovative and economically …

A Study Of Fatigue And Fracture Response Of Cantilevered Luminaire Structures Made From Aluminum Alloy 6063, Craig Menzemer, Diya Azzam, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

In the experimental results elegantly and exhaustively elaborated upon in this paper the local stresses, obtained from finite element analysis, was used to develop estimates of the stress intensity factor (SIF). In combination with crack growth data, the fatigue lives of both the through-plate and an integrally stiffened socket connection were estimated using software developed by the U.S. Air Force (and referred to as AFGROW). The fatigue life estimates correlated well with the test results provided the crack growth rate data was obtained under conditions of minimal closure at higher stress ratios (of the order R = 0.7). In an …

Isolating Corrosion Of Steel Plates Coupled With Titanium, Anil Patnaik, X. Shan, M. Adams, T. Srivatsan, Craig Menzemer, Joe Payer

Craig Menzemer

Over twenty six percent of the bridges in the United States are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. Corrosion of steel used in structures like bridges and buildings is a problem that has gained increased interest and focused concern. Steel is often the metal that is preferred for use in such applications due to a synergism of ease of availability, acceptable mechanical properties and cost effectiveness. Through the years, titanium has grown in strength, stature and significance to be recognized as an emerging high performance metal that is both stronger and lighter than steel. A distinctive property of titanium and its …

High School Bridge Program: A Multidisciplinary Stem Research Program, Jiang Zhe, Dennis Doverspike, Julie Zhao, Paul C. Lam, Craig C. Menzemer

Craig Menzemer

A Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) summer Bridge Program was developed for high school students. The program was designed to encourage students to consider choosing an engineering major in college and to explore STEM as a future career. This was accomplished through a 10-week program involving multidisciplinary research activities. The participants in the program included 33 high school students. Among former participants in position to make a choice in terms of attending college, 100% had chosen to continue on in college, and 86% had chosen to major in a STEM area. The results indicated that that the program had …

Mechanisms Governing Fatigue, Damage, And Fracture Of Commercially Pure Titanium For Viable Aerospace Applications, Udaykar Bathini, Tirumalai Srivatsan, Anil Patnaik, Craig Menzemer

Craig Menzemer

In this paper, the cyclic stress amplitude controlled high-cycle fatigue properties and final fracture behavior of commercially pure titanium (Grade 2) are presented and discussed. The material characterization was developed and put forth for selection and use in a spectrum of applications spanning the industries of aerospace, defense, chemical, marine, and commercial products. Test specimens were prepared from the as-received plate stock of the material with the stress axis both parallel (longitudinal) and perpendicular (transverse) to the rolling direction of the plate. The test specimens were cyclically deformed at a constant load ratio of 0.1, at different values of maximum …

An Evaluation Of A Stem Program For Middle School Students On Learning Disability Related Ieps, Paul C. Lam, Dennis Doverspike, Julie Zhao, Jiang Zhe, Craig C. Menzemer

Craig Menzemer

A year long Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program was developed for middle schools students on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) involving learning disabilities. The workshops were designed to encourage students both on IEPs and not on IEPs to explore STEM as a future career choice by building their knowledge and confidence. The participants in the workshops included 11 students on IEPs and 15 students not on IEPs. Parents also provided feedback regarding their attitudes toward the program. The results indicated that there were increases in student participant knowledge and career interest for both the students not on IEPs and …

Infuence Of Welding And Heat Treatment On Microstructure, Properties And Fracture Behaviour Of A Wrought Aluminium Alloy, Eric Hilty, Craig Menzemer, Kannan Manigandan, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

Welding of aluminium alloy, belonging to the 6XXX series, exerts an adverse influence on its strength. The loss of strength immediately adjacent to the welds can have an influence on overall behaviour of the structure or component. In this study, the technique of gas metal arc welding was used. The filler material used was a silicon-containing aluminium alloy. Subsequent to welding, the alloy (6061-T4) was subjected to post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) at 185°C for 6 h. Both the as-welded and artificially aged extrusions of aluminium alloy 6061 were examined for both microstructural development and resultant influence on mechanical properties. Light …

The Bearing Strength And Fracture Behavior Of Bolted Connections In Two Aluminum Alloys, Nicholas Tinl, Craig Menzemer, Kannan Manigandan, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Craig Menzemer

In this paper, the bearing capacity, taken as a combination of strength, elongation, and failure by fracture characteristics of bolt holes in two aluminum alloys, 5052-H32 and 6061-T6, that were deformed in uniaxial tension is presented and discussed. The specific role played by bolt hole confinement on the bearing capacity of each aluminum alloy is highlighted. An increase in the bearing ratio caused plastic deformation around the holes to gradually increase. For both the chosen aluminum alloys the average bearing ratio at the time of failure of the test sample was found to vary with end distance. The experimentally determined …

Work Integrated Learning In Stem In Australian Universities: Final Report: Submitted To The Office Of The Chief Scientist, Daniel Edwards, Kate Perkins, Jacob Pearce, Jennifer Hong

Dr Daniel Edwards

The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) undertook this study for the Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS). It explores the practice and application of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in STEM, with a particular focus on natural and physical sciences, information technology, and agriculture departments in Australian universities. The project involved a detailed ‘stocktake’ of WIL in practice in these disciplines, with collection of information by interview, survey instruments, consultation with stakeholders and literature reviews. Every university in Australia was visited as part of this project, with interviews and consultation sessions gathering insight from more than 120 academics and support …

Work Integrated Learning In Stem In Australian Universities: Final Report: Submitted To The Office Of The Chief Scientist, Daniel Edwards, Kate Perkins, Jacob Pearce, Jennifer Hong

Dr Jacob Pearce

The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) undertook this study for the Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS). It explores the practice and application of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in STEM, with a particular focus on natural and physical sciences, information technology, and agriculture departments in Australian universities. The project involved a detailed ‘stocktake’ of WIL in practice in these disciplines, with collection of information by interview, survey instruments, consultation with stakeholders and literature reviews. Every university in Australia was visited as part of this project, with interviews and consultation sessions gathering insight from more than 120 academics and support …

Electric-Elastic Field Induced By A Straight Dislocation In One-Dimensional Quasicrystals, L. Z. Yang, Y. Gao, Ernian Pan, Natalie P. Waksmansk

Ernian Pan

By using the generalized Stroh formalism, the electric-elastic field induced by a straight dislocation parallel to a periodic axis of a one-dimensional quasicrystal is obtained. The derivation is concise and the solution is in an exact closed form. As an illustration, the electric-elastic fields around a straight dislocation in a one-dimensional hexagonal quasicrystal are studied. Besides the interesting numerical results presented, the generalized Stroh formalism can be applied to more complicated dislocation problems in quasicrystals

Closure To “Analysis And Design Method For Slope Stabilization Using A Row Of Drilled Shafts, Robert Liang, Arash Joorabchi, Lin Li

Robert Y. Liang

No abstract provided.

Extrinsic Influence Of Environment On The Corrosion Behaviour Of Enamel-Coated Steel Dowel Bars, Srikanth Bajaj, Anil Patnaik, Joe Payer, Robert Liang, Kannan Manigandan, Tirumalai Srivatsan

Robert Y. Liang

A new type of enamel coated dowel bars for use as concrete pavements has been recently developed and implemented. A gradual deterioration of such bars can occur due to corrosion occurring at locations of the fine microscopic cracks and other defects in the coating. The results of a study aimed at evaluating and understanding the corrosion resistance of such dowel bars is presented and comparisons made with corresponding epoxy-coated dowel bars. Identical defects were introduced onto the surface of the dowel bars with the two types of coatings. The extrinsic influence of environment and resultant corrosion based on type, location …

A Clustering Based Method To Evaluate Soil Corrosivity For Pipeline External Integrity Management, Ayako Yajima, Hui Wang, Robert Liang, Homero Castaneda

Robert Y. Liang

One important category of transportation infrastructure is underground pipelines. Corrosion of these buried pipeline systems may cause pipeline failures with the attendant hazards of property loss and fatalities. Therefore, developing the capability to estimate the soil corrosivity is important for designing and preserving materials and for risk assessment. The deterioration rate of metal is highly influenced by the physicochemical characteristics of a material and the environment of its surroundings. In this study, the field data obtained from the southeast region of Mexico was examined using various data mining techniques to determine the usefulness of these techniques for clustering soil corrosivity …