Course Schedule and Catalog

Long Title: CLASSICAL THERMODYNAMICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Explication of the fundamental laws of classical thermodynamics and deductions from them. Includes applications with particular attention to pure substances. Required for mechanical engineering majors. Department Permission Required. Recommended Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101 and PHYS 102.

Long Title: ENGINEERING MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (PHYS 101 OR PHYS 111 OR PHYS 125 OR PHYS 141) AND MATH 101 AND MATH 102

Description: The study equilibrium of static systems, the dynamics of a particle and particle systems, and rigid-body dynamics. Required for mechanical engineering and materials science and engineering majors. Cross-list: CEVE 211.

Long Title: CURRENT TOPICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Designed for undergraduate mechanical engineering students. Lectures in areas of current interest in mechanical engineering. Topics may vary from term to term. Please consult with the department for additional information.

Long Title: SENIOR DESIGN JUNIOR OBSERVERS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Independent Study

Credit Hours: 1

Description:  Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: MECHANICS OF SOLIDS AND STRUCTURES

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): CEVE 211 OR MECH 211

Description: Analysis of stress and the deformation of solids with applications to beams, circular shafts, and columns. Required for mechanical engineering majors. Cross-list: CEVE 311.

Long Title: MECHANICS AND SPORTS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101 OR PHYS 111 OR PHYS 125 OR PHYS 141

Description: Athletic performance is greatly influenced by basic laws of mechanics. The motion of projectiles (including the Magnus effect) has broad application, as does the mechanics of impact. Other important topics include biomechanics of human performance, limits and records, development of optimal strategies and design of regulation of sports equipment.

Long Title: JUNIOR LABORATORY I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Laboratory

Credit Hours: 1

Description: Instruction in static and impact testing of engineering materials. Includes beam deflection and shear center experiments, as well as the application and testing of strain gauges. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program.

Long Title: JUNIOR LABORATORY II

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Laboratory

Credit Hours: 1

Prerequisite(s): MECH 371

Description: Instruction in fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. Students work in groups and perform classic experiments in fluid flow. This laboratory course provides experimental support to MECH 371. Required course for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. See on-line registration for sections.

Long Title: INDUSTRIAL PROCESS LAB

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Laboratory

Credit Hours: 1

Description: Practical experience in, and observation of, selected industrial processes. Must sign up in department office at the beginning of registration for sections; each section is limited to 8 students. Open only to mechanical engineering majors. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. Final registration confirmed after the first week's organizational meeting. Meeting announcements posted in the MEMS department.

Long Title: MODELING OF DYNAMIC SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 4

Prerequisite(s): (MECH 211 OR CEVE 211) AND MECH 200 AND MATH 211

Description: Energy-based modeling of dynamic systems. The focus of the course will be mechanical systems and electrical circuits, but will also involve fluid, thermal and other domains. The course will introduce modeling and simulation of systems via MATLAB, Simulink, and Labview, and an introduction to systems theory. Modeling and simulation of systems via MATLAB, and an introduction to systems theory. Includes laboratory assignments. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. Recommended Prerequisite(s): CAAM 335.

Long Title: FLUID MECHANICS I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 200 AND (MECH 211 OR CEVE 211) AND MATH 212

Description: Introduction to fluid statics and dynamics. Includes the development of the fundamental equations of fluid mechanics and their application to problems of engineering interest. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. Department Permission Required.

Long Title: ACOUSTICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Basics of technical acoustics, including generation, propagation, reception and reproduction of sound, speech and hearing, musical and architectural acoustics, and noise control. Offered alternate years.

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO MECHANICAL EFFECTS IN TISSUES

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 211 AND MECH 311 OR CEVE 300

Description: Development of a general background in physiology and in advanced mechanics for applications in medicine. Includes bone mechanics in remodeling, cartilage and ligament mechanics, and muscle mechanics, as well as an on paper design project on a subject selected by students.

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO BIOMEDICAL INSTRUMENTATION AND MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): ELEC 381 or permission of instructor

Description: Review of basic sensors, measurement principles and analog electronics using operational amplifiers. Includes design problems using operational amplifier circuits (e.g. instrumentation and isolation amplifiers, comparators, timer circuits). Introduction to development of virtual instruments (VIs) using LabView. Discussion of micro and macro-biopotential electrodes, cell cytometry, the measurement of blood pressure, blood flow, and heart sounds, temperature, and the principles of electrical safety (e.g. micro and macro-shock hazards in the clinical environment). Includes discussion of pulmonary instrumentation and medical applications of ultrasound. Two lab exercises and a term project required.

Long Title: ADVANCED MECHANICS OF MATERIALS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (MECH 211 OR CEVE 211) AND (MECH 311 OR CEVE 311)

Description: Advanced topics in solid mechanics and strength of materials including energy methods, principle of virtual work, conservation laws, constitutive modeling, aspects of elasticity theory, stability and fracture mechanics with application to the analysis and design of reliable structures. Cross-list: CEVE 400, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 500. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 400 if student has credit for MECH 500.

Long Title: MECHANICAL DESIGN APPLICATIONS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 311 OR CEVE 311

Description: Brief review of solid mechanics with introduction to failure theories and fatigue analysis. The principles of mechanics are applied to the design of machine elements. A semester design project requires using the analysis tools learned in the course. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program.

Long Title: COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Investigation of the integration of the computer into the area of mechanical design. Includes such subjects as optimization, finite element, analysis, and commercial software. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 503. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 403 if student has credit for MECH 503.

Long Title: MECHANICAL DESIGN PROJECT

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 1 TO 4

Description: Project based course for group or individual design projects relating to mechanical engineering topics.

Long Title: CAPSTONE DESIGN PROJECT I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 4

Description: An interdisciplinary capstone design experience in mechanical engineering. This course provides an opportunity for students to apply knowledge and skills acquired in previous courses to the solution of a realistic engineering problem. Teams of students will specify, design, and build a system to meet a prescribed set of requirements. The topics covered in this course will include design methodology, effective teamwork, project management, documentation, and presentation skills. Must complete MECH 408 to receive credit for MECH 407. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program.

Long Title: CAPSTONE DESIGN PROJECT II

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Description: An interdisciplinary capstone design experience in mechanical engineering. This course provides an opportunity for students to apply knowledge and skills acquired in previous courses to the solution of a realistic engineering problem. Teams of students will specify, design, and build a system to meet a prescribed set of requirements. The topics covered in this course will include design methodology, effective teamwork, project management, documentation, and presentation skills. Must complete MECH 408 to receive credit for MECH 407. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. Department Permission Required.

Long Title: DYNAMICS AND CONTROL OF MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 343 AND MECH 420

Description: The application of the principles of kinematics, dynamics and systems and control theory to the design and analysis of controlled mechanical systems. Kinematics and Newtonian dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, elements of analytical dynamics, system analysis, stability, and simulation of dynamical behavior, control of mechanical systems. Demonstrations and laboratory examples. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 501. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 411 if student has credit for MECH 501.

Long Title: VIBRATIONS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 343

Description: Analysis of discrete and continuous linear vibrating systems, with emphasis on multi-degree-of-freedom systems. Includes approximate methods. Coverage of statistics (e.g. Gaussian and other distributions; and power spectra) as a foundation for random vibrations analysis. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 502. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 412 if student has credit for MECH 502.

Long Title: FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (MATH 212 OR MATH 222) AND (CAAM 210 OR CAAM 211)

Description: An introduction to finite element analysis by Galerkin's method and the method of least squares as applied to both ordinary and partial differential equations common in engineering applications. Element interpolations, numerical integration, computational considerations for efficient solution and post-processing methods. Application of the commercial codes to ANSYS and Cosmosworks. Cross-list: CEVE 417, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 517. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 417 if student has credit for MECH 517.

Long Title: FUNDAMENTALS OF CONTROL SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Linear systems and the fundamental principles of classical feedback control, state variable analysis of linear dynamic systems, stability of linear control systems, time-domain analysis and control of linear systems, root-locus analysis and design and pole-zero synthesis, frequency domain techniques for the analysis and design of control systems. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. Cross-list: ELEC 436, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 620. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 420 if student has credit for MECH 620.

Long Title: MATRIX METHODS IN STRUCTURAL MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): CEVE 311 OR MECH 311

Description: Introduction to matrix structural analysis, trusses, beams, frames. Use of computer programs for structural analysis of Civil, Mechanical, and Aerospace Structures. Cross-list: CEVE 427. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 427 if student has credit for MECH 527.

Long Title: SENIOR LABORATORY I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Laboratory

Credit Hours: 1

Description: Laboratory instruction in heat transfer and thermodynamics. Students work in groups doing experiments with emphasis on applied thermodynamics. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. See online registration for sections. Department Permission Required.

Long Title: ELECTROMECHANICAL DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): ELEC 242 OR ELEC 243

Description: Introduction to the physical and engineering aspects of electromechanical sensors and actuators. Includes underlying physical phenomena, practical devices, electrical and mechanical interfacing, and control of electromechanical systems. Cross-list: ELEC 435.

Long Title: ALGORITHMIC ROBOTICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 4

Prerequisite(s): COMP 215 AND COMP 221

Description: Robots have fascinated people for generations. Today, robots are built for applications as diverse as exploring remote planets, de-mining war zones, cleaning toxic waste, assembling cars, inspecting pipes in industrial plants and mowing lawns. Robots are also interacting with humans in a variety of ways: robots are museum guides, robots assist surgeon sin life threatening operations, and robotic cars can drive us around. The field of robotics studies not only the design of new mechanisms but also the development of artificial intelligence frameworks to make these mechanism useful in the physical world, integrating computer science, engineering, mathematics and more recently biology and sociology, in a unique way. This class will present fundamental algorithmic advances that enable today’s robots to move in real environments and plan their actions. It will also explore fundamentals of the field of Artificial Intelligence through the prism of robotics. The class involves a significant programming project. Cross-list: COMP 450, ELEC 450. Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: COMPUTATIONAL FLUID MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Fundamental concepts of finite element methods in fluid mechanics, including spatial discretization and numerical integration in multidimensions, time-integration, and solution of nonlinear ordinary differential equation systems. Advanced numerical stabilization techniques designed for fluid mechanics problems. Strategies for solution of complex, real-world problems. Topics in large-scale computing, parallel processing, and visualization. Cross-list: BIOE 454, CEVE 454, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 554. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 454 if student has credit for MECH 554.

Long Title: LEGAL THEMES IN ENGINEERING AND MANAGING PRACTICES

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Introduction to fundamental legal concepts of the American legal system for upper level undergraduate students, primarily aimed at what engineers, scientists and other professionals could expect to encounter in their professional careers. The primary focus is to provide students with the basic tools to understand and interact with lawyers. Cross-list: MANA 499, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 556. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 456 if student has credit for MECH 556.

Long Title: APPLICATIONS OF THERMODYNAMICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 200 AND MECH 481

Description: Applications of thermodynamics to various systems of interest in mechanical engineering, with emphasis on energy conversion, refrigeration, and psychrometrics.

Long Title: THERMAL SYSTEMS DESIGN

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 371 AND MECH 481

Description: Design and synthesis of systems based on applications of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, economics, and optimization theories. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program.

Long Title: ADVANCED FLUID MECHANICS I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Governing equations for inviscid and viscous flows. Constitutive laws, simple non-Newtonian flows, and surface tension. Derivation and applications of the equations representing the conservation of mass and momentum. Various forms of the Bernoulli equation. Introductory concepts of computational fluid mechanics. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 573. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 473 if student has credit for MECH 573.

Long Title: ADVANCED COMPUTATIONAL MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): BIOE 454 OR CEVE 454 OR MECH 454 OR BIOE 554 OR CEVE 554 OR MECH 554 or permission of instructor

Description: Undergraduate version of MECH 654. The required semester-end report and presentation will be on the introductory topics of the course. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 474 if student has credit for MECH 654.

Long Title: HEAT TRANSFER

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (MECH 200 AND MECH 371)

Description: Study of the general principles of heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation. Includes their application to problems of engineering practice. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program.

Long Title: INTERMEDIATE HEAT TRANSFER

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 481

Description: Continuation of MECH 481. Includes applications to various problems in mechanical engineering.

Long Title: DESIGN OF MECHATRONIC SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 343 OR ELEC 241 OR ELEC 243

Description: Analog electronic design for purposes of controlling electromechanical systems, including electromechanical sensors and actuators, analog electronic design of filters, state space and classical controllers, and transistor-based servo amplifiers and high voltage amplifiers. Implementation of digital controllers. Significant laboratory component with design and fabrication of circuits to control electromechanical systems. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 588. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MECH 211 and ELEC 436 or MECH 420. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 488 if student has credit for MECH 588.

Long Title: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING RESEARCH PROJECTS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Research

Credit Hours: 1 TO 3

Description: Independent investigation of a specific topic or problem in mechanical engineering. Research under the direction of a selected faculty member. Instructor Permission Required. Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO ROBOTICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MATH 354 OR MATH 355 OR CAAM 335

Description: The course will provide the student with a mathematical introduction to many of the key ideas used in today's intelligent robot systems. The focus of the course is on the analysis and control of manipulators. The course will also give an overview of common approaches to building intelligent robot systems. Cross-list: COMP 498, ELEC 498, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 598. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 498 if student has credit for MECH 598.

Long Title: CURRENT TOPICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Designed for undergraduate mechanical engineering students. Lectures in areas of current interest in mechanical engineering. Topics vary from term to term. Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: ADVANCED MECHANICS OF MATERIALS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (MECH 211 OR CEVE 211) AND (MECH 311 OR CEVE 311)

Description: Advanced topics in solid mechanics and strength of materials including energy methods, principle of virtual work, conservation laws, constitutive modeling, aspects of elasticity theory, stability and fracture mechanics with application to the analysis and design of reliable structures. Cross-list: CEVE 500, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 400. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 500 if student has credit for MECH 400.

Long Title: DYNAMICS AND CONTROL OF MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 343 AND MECH 420

Description: Graduate version of MECH 411. Offered continually with MECH 411. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 411. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 501 if student has credit for MECH 411.

Long Title: VIBRATIONS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 343

Description: Term project is required. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 412. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 502 if student has credit for MECH 412.

Long Title: COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Investigation of the integration of the computer into the area of design. Includes such subjects as optimization, finite element analysis, and commercial software. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 403. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 503 if student has credit for MECH 403.

Long Title: NONLINEAR SYSTEMS: ANALYSIS AND CONTROL

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Mathematical background and fundamental properties of nonlinear systems: Vector norms, matrix norms, matrix measures, existence and uniqueness of solutions of ordinary differential equations. Linearization, second order systems, periodic solutions, approximate methods. Lyapunov stability: Stability definitions, Lyapunov's direct method, invariance theory, stability of linear systems, Lyapunov's linearization method, converse theorems. Selected topics in nonlinear systems analysis and nonlinear control from: Input/Output stability: Small gain theorem, passivity theorem. Perturbation theory, averaging, and singular perturbations Feedback linearization control. Other methods in the control of nonlinear systems such as backstepping, sliding mode and other Lyapunov-based design methods. Advanced nonlinear and adaptive robot control. Cross-list: CAAM 508, ELEC 508.

Long Title: ELASTO DYNAMICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Propagation of waves in linearly-elastic strings, fluids, and solids. Surface waves, wave reflection and refraction at interfaces. Wave propagation in waveguides. Steady-state and transient half-space problems. Scattering of waves by cracks.

Long Title: THEORY OF PLASTICITY

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 511 OR MECH 513 or permission of instructor

Description: Mathematical theory of plasticity. Thermodynamics of irreversible processes as applied to plasticity. Elasto-plastic boundary value problems. Slip-line theory. General principles. Single crystal plasticity. Dislocation dynamic-based plasticity.

Long Title: FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (MATH 212 OR MATH 222) AND (CAAM 210 OR CAAM 211)

Description: An introduction to Galerkin's method and the method of least squares applied to partial differential equations. Computational considerations for efficient interpolation, numerical integration, solution and post-processing methods. Error estimation and adaptive finite element analysis. Requires the use of solid works for a student project and a supporting literature survey. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 417. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 517 if student has credit for MECH 417.

Long Title: ELEASTICITY, PLASTICITY AND DAMAGE MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Description: An overview of phenomena that determine the response of solids to deformation and loading: elasticity, plasticity, damage mechanics and cracking. Review of continuum mechanics with emphasis on the physical mechanisms of deformation and fracture. Classification of the behavior of solids. Modeling of different types of material behavior. The physics underlying the phenomena and methods for the numerical analysis of the resulting equations are discussed. Cross-list: CEVE 519.

Long Title: NONLINEAR FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Formulation and solution of nonlinear initial/boundary value problems using the finite element method. Variational principles for nonlinear problems, finite element discretization, and equation-solving strategies for discrete nonlinear equation systems. Applications include: materially nonlinear systems, geometrically nonlinear systems, transient nonlinear problems, and treatment of non smooth constraints in a nonlinear framework. Cross-list: CEVE 503.

Long Title: PROBABILISTIC STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 412 OR CEVE 521

Description: Introduction to probability theory and random processes. Includes the dynamic analysis of linear and nonlinear structural systems subjected to stationary and nonstationary random excitations reliability studies related to first excursion and fatigue failures, and applications to earthquake engineering, offshore engineering, and wind engineering. Recommended prerequisite(s): Basic knowledge of probability theory.

Long Title: ENGINEERING MATHEMATICAL AND NUMERICAL METHODS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Elements of linear algebra, linear operators, systems of linear differential equations for discrete physical systems, calculus of variations, partial differential equations, Green's functions, examples from solid and fluid mechanics, discretization of continuous systems, finite element method.

Long Title: COMPUTATIONAL METHODS IN STRUCTURAL MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Introduction to differential and integral formulations, minimum principles, variational principles, weighted residuals, energy principles, and principle of virtual work. Boundary, initial, and eigenvalue problems. Finite element and finite difference methods for structural mechanics. Applications to static and dynamic truss beams and frame problems. MATLAB programming and use of computer software. Cross-list: CEVE 527. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 527 if student has credit for MECH 427.

Long Title: DESIGN AND CONTROL OF COMPUTER NETWORKS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Graduate-level introduction to design and analysis of communication networks. Topics include wireless networks, medium access, routing, traffic modeling, congestion control, and scheduling. Cross-list: ELEC 537.

Long Title: COMPUTATIONAL FLUID MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Graduate version of MECH 454. Additional work required. Cross-list: BIOE 554, CEVE 554, Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 454. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 554 if student has credit for MECH 454.

Long Title: COMPUTATIONAL FLUID-STRUCTURE INTERACTION

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (MECH 454 OR BIOE 454 OR CEVE 454) OR (MECH 554 OR BIOE 554 OR CEVE 554) or permission of instructor

Description: Components and challenges of fluid-structure interaction (FSI) computations. Finite element methods for flows with moving interfaces; space-time techniques. Fluid-structure interface projection techniques. Mesh moving and remeshing techniques. FSI coupling techniques for fluid, structure, and mesh equation blocks. FSI computation sequences. FSI contact algorithms, multiscale FSI, cardiovascular FSI, and parachute FSI.

Long Title: LEGAL THEMES IN ENGINEERING AND MANAGING PRACTICE

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Introduction to fundamental legal concepts of the American legal system for upper level undergraduate students, primarily aimed at what engineers, scientists and other professionals could expect to encounter in their professional careers. The primary focus is to provide students with the basic tools to understand and interact with lawyers. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 456. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 556 if student has credit for MECH 456.

Long Title: AEROSPACE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Integration of engineering problem solving methodologies based on systems concepts. Applications to complex, large scale aerospace systems and problems faced by engineering managers. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MECH 472 and MECH 594.

Long Title: ADVANCED FLUID MECHANICS I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Additional work required. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 473. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 573 if student has credit for MECH 473.

Long Title: STRUCTURAL DYNAMIC SYSTEMS AND CONTROL

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Seminar

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Introduction to structural dynamic systems and control. Linear systems and control theory, transform methods, state space methods, feedack control, observers, and identification. Applications using MATLAB. Demonstrations and laboratory examples. Students in MECH 576 will be required to do more advanced assignments and a project. Instructor Permission Required for Undergraduates. Cross-list: CEVE 576.

Long Title: MECHANICS AND KINEMATICS OF RESPIRATORY MUSCLE IN OBESITY

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: The course is designed to understand unique aspects of remodeling the respiratory system mechanics in obesity. Focus will be on remodeling of diaphragm muscle and chest wall as a consequence of obesity. In particular, alteration in the kinematics and mechanics of the diaphragm in obese subjects will be evaluated.

Long Title: MICRO AND NANO HEAT TRANSPORT METHODOLOGIES AND DESIGN

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 481 or permission of instructor

Description: A thorough explanation of the methodologies used for solving conduction, convection and radiation heat transport problems in macro, micro and nanosystems. Phonon, photon and electron transfer fundamentals. Equilibrium Statistics. Basic kinetic theory and transport properties of ideal gases. Microchannel heat transfer. Nanofluid heat transfer. Non-Fourier heat Conduction. Boltzmann transport equation. Molecular dynamics and lattice dynamics numeric methods. Applications and design problems in contemporary technologies. To be taught alternating years for MECH and MSNE Seniors and Graduate students.

Long Title: CONVECTIVE HEAT TRANSFER

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Rigorous study of the transfer of heat by free and forced convection. Not offered every year.

Long Title: RADIATIVE HEAT TRANSFER I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: This course will analyze the radiative heat transfer phenomena. After introduction, radiative exchange between surfaces in an enclosure without a radiatively participating medium will be analyzed. Then the radiative transfer equation through an absorbing, emitting and scattering medium (or participating medium) will be developed. The radiative properties of gases and particulates will be discussed.

Long Title: RESPIRATORY SYSTEM MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Mechanics of ventilation, respiratory muscle mechanics, rib cage mechanics, mechanical coupling between the respiratory muscles and the rib cage, and inferences on mechanics from respiratory muscle anatomy. The class will meet in the Pulmonary Division at Baylor College of Medicine in the Texas Medical Center. Cross-list: BIOE 586.

Long Title: DESIGN OF MECHATRONIC SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Additional work required. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 488. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 588 if student has credit for MECH 488.

Long Title: GAS DYNAMICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 371

Description: Study of the fundamentals of compressible, one-dimensional gas flows with area change, normal shocks, friction, and heat addition. Includes oblique shocks, Prandtl-Meyer flows expansions, and numerical techniques.

Long Title: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING PROBLEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Independent Study

Credit Hours: 3

Description: An approved investigation or design project under the direction of a member of the staff. Open only to mechanical engineering majors. Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO AERONAUTICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 371

Description: Development of theories for the prediction of aerodynamic forces and moments acting on airfoils, wings, and bodies. Includes their design applications.

Long Title: MODELING TISSUE MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Independent Study

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Independent study and seminar course which focuses on modeling the mechanical properties of biological tissues. Data from experiments will be used to refine the predictions of nonlinear mathematical computer models. Aimed at juniors, seniors, and graduate students. Laboratory work performed at Baylor College of Medicine, computer work at Rice University. Cross-list: BIOE 595.

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO FLIGHT MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 371 OR CEVE 371

Description: This course will examine the basic flight mechanics of aircraft and spacecraft. Simulation exercises will be conducted to illustrate the principles. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MECH 594

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO ROBOTICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Additional work required. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 498. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 598 if student has credit for MECH 498.

Long Title: CURRENT TOPICS IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Designed for senior and graduate level students. Lectures in areas of current interest in mechanical engineering. Topics may vary from term to term. Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: SPECIAL TOPICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 1 TO 9

Description: Topics may vary. Please consult with the department for additional information. Instructor Permission Required.

Long Title: SPECIAL TOPICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 1 TO 9

Description: Topics may vary. Please consult with the department for additional information.

Long Title: SPECIAL TOPICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 1 TO 9

Description: Topics may vary. Please consult with the department for additional information. Instructor Permission Required.

Long Title: SPECIAL TOPICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 1 TO 9

Prerequisite(s): BIOE 554 OR CEVE 554 OR MECH 554 OR CEVE 454 OR MECH 454 OR BIOE 454 or permission of instructor

Long Title: SPECIAL TOPICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 1 TO 9

Description: Topics may vary. Please consult with the department for additional information.

Long Title: GRADUATE SEMINAR

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Course Type: Seminar

Credit Hours: 1

Description:  Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: INDEPENDENT STUDY

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Independent Study

Credit Hours: 1 TO 9

Description:  Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: INDEPENDENT STUDY

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Independent Study

Credit Hours: 1 TO 9

Description:  Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: FUNDAMENTALS OF CONTROL SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Linear systems and the fundamental principles of classical feedback control, state variable analysis of linear dynamic systems, stability of linear control systems, time-domain analysis and control of linear systems, root-locus analysis and design and pole-zero synthesis, frequency domain techniques for the analysis and design of control systems. Required for mechanical engineering majors in B.S. program. Additional work required for MECH 620. Cannot be taken if MECH 420 or ELEC 436 was previously taken. Instructor Permission Required.Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 420. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 620 if student has credit for MECH 420.

Long Title: M.M.E. RESEARCH PROJECT I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Research

Credit Hours: 3

Description: This is the first part of the M.M.E. research project course. The faculty advisor, taking into account the background and research interests of the student as well as the research interests of the faculty advisor, will determine the contents. Course requirements will include a final report. Instructor Permission Required.

Long Title: M.M.E. RESEARCH PROJECT II

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Research

Credit Hours: 3

Description: This is the second part of the M.M.E. research project and continuation of MECH 621. Course requirements will include a final report.

Long Title: ADVANCED COMPUTATIONAL MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): BIOE 554 OR CEVE 554 OR MECH 554 OR CEVE 454 OR MECH 454 OR BIOE 454 or permission of instructor

Description: Advanced topics in computational mechanics with emphasis on finite element methods and fluid mechanics. Stabilized formulations. Fluid-particle and fluid-structure interactions and free-surface and two-fluid flows. Interface-tracking and interface-capturing techniques, space-time formulations, and mesh update methods. Enhanced discretization and solution techniques. Iterative solution methods, matrix-free computations, and advanced preconditioning techniques. Cross-list: BIOE 654, CEVE 654. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 654 if student has credit for MECH 474.

Long Title: ANALYSIS OF VIBRATIONS IN NONLINEAR SYSTEMS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 502

Description: Nonlinear vibrations are studied in structural and mechanical systems. Methods for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of these systems are applied. The classification and stability of equilibrium and periodic solutions are discussed for continuous time systems and discrete maps. Floquet theory and Poincare maps are used to study periodic behavior.

Long Title: NONLINEAR DYNAMIC BEHAVIOR IN MECHANIC SYSTEMS AND STRUCTURES

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MECH 502

Description: Various types of nonlinear dynamic behavior are studied in mechanical systems and structures. The course will focus mainly on quasi-periodic and chaotic behavior but will also include periodic behavior. Modeling and analysis methods will be discussed for both discrete and continuous time systems including Lyapunov exponents and pseudo-state space. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MECH 665

Long Title: ADVANCED STOCHASTIC MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Nonlinear random vibrations, Statistical Linearization, ARMA filters modeling, Monte Carlo Simulation, Wiener-Volterra series, time-variant structural reliability, and Stochastic Finite Elements are presented from a perspective of usefulness to aerospace, civil, marine, and mechanical applications. Cross-list: CEVE 678.

Long Title: APPLIED MONTE CARLO ANALYSIS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Probability density and power spectrum based simulation concepts and procedures are discussed. Scalar and vectorial simulation are addressed. Spectral decomposition and digital filter algorithms are presented. Applications from aerospace, earthquake, marine, and wind engineering, and from other applied science disciplines are included. Cross-list: CEVE 679.

Long Title: RADIATIVE HEAT TRANSFER I

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Rigorous study of the transfer of heat by radiant exchange in the absence of absorbing media.

Long Title: RADIATIVE HEAT TRANSFER II

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Study of radiative transfer in the presence of absorbing, emitting, and scattering media. Includes combined radiation, conduction, and convection, as well as heat transfer in furnaces, fire propagation, and air pollution problems. Not offered every year.

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO HYPERSONIC AERODYNAMICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Recommended Prerequisite(s): MECH 591.

Long Title: ADVANCED MODELING TISSUE MECHANICS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Continuation of MECH 595/BIOE 595 with emphasis on advanced modeling the micromechanics of biological tissues. Independent study and seminar/discussion course. Data from experiments will be used to refine the predictions of mathematical models. Designed for juniors, seniors, and graduate students. Laboratory work performed at Baylor College of Medicine and computer work at Rice University.

Long Title: VISITING RESEARCH TRAINEE

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Course Type: Research

Credit Hours: 0

Description: Visiting research trainee Instructor Permission Required.

Long Title: RESEARCH AND THESIS

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Course Type: Research

Credit Hours: 1 TO 12

Description:  Repeatable for Credit.