MEE 500. Advanced Engineering Analysis. 3 Hours

Graduate-level course encompassing fundamental analytical concepts and methods of engineering analysis. Topics will be drawn based upon Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Vector Calculus, Tensor Analysis, Tensor Calculus, Fourier Analysis, and Partial Differential Equations with emphasis on their engineering applications in areas including Aerospace, Biomechanics, Design, Dynamics and Control, Materials, and Thermo-Fluids.

MEE 501. Principles of Materials I. 3 Hours

Structure of engineering materials from electronic to atomic and crystallographic considerations. Includes atomic structure and interatomic bonding, imperfections, diffusion, mechanical properties, strengthening mechanisms, failure, phase diagrams, phase transformations and processing. Prerequisite(s): MTH 219; college chemistry; college physics.

MEE 502. Principles of Materials II. 3 Hours

Structure, behavior and processing of metal alloys, ceramics, polymers, and composites to include: mechanical behavior, corrosion, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties. Prerequisite(s): MEE 501 or equivalent.

MEE 503. Introduction to Continuum Mechanics. 3 Hours

Tensors, calculus of variations, Lagrangian and Eulerian descriptions of motion. General equations of continuum mechanics, constitutive equations of mechanics, thermodynamics of continua. Specialization to cases of solid and fluid mechanics. Prerequisite(s): EGM 303 or EGM 330.

MEE 504. Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics. 3 Hours

An advanced course in fluid mechanics with emphasis on the derivation of conservation equations and the application of constitutive theory. Navier-Stokes equations. Ideal fluid approximation. Exact and approximate solutions to classical viscous and inviscid problems. Compressible and incompressible flows. Prerequisites: MEE 308 or equivalent, or instructor permission.

MEE 505. Mechanics of Soft Materials. 3 Hours

Constitutive modeling of soft materials capable of large elastic deformations such as natural rubber, elastomers, biomaterials, tissues, and gels. Rigorous development of the constitutive theory for isotropic large-strain elasticity (hyper-elasticity) using the principles of nonlinear continuum mechanics. Survey of popular strain energy functions for elastomers, both compressible and incompressible. Experimental methods for material characterization and model validation. Calibration of constitutive models to experimental test data, accounting for special considerations such as consistency with linear elasticity and stability. Implementation of constitutive models in commercial finite element analysis software. Analytical and computational solutions of quasi-static boundary-value problems. Advanced topics including viscoelasticity, temperature-dependent response, thermal aging, anisotropy, damage, fracture, and the Mullins effect. Required background: undergraduate strength of materials, undergraduate calculus (integral and differential) including partial differentiation, undergraduate differential equations. Prerequisites: MEE 503 or instructor permission.

MEE 506. Mechanical Behavior of Materials. 3 Hours

Fundamental relationships between the structure and mechanical behavior of materials. Includes fundamentals of stress and strain, the physical basis for elastic deformation, elementary dislocation theory and plastic deformation, strengthening mechanisms, yield criteria and their application to biaxial and multi-axial behavior and failure, fracture and toughening mechanisms, creep and creep rupture, behavior and failure of cellular solids and fatigue. Prerequisite(s): (MAT 501, MAT 502) or permission of instructor.

MEE 507. Materials for Advanced Energy Applications. 3 Hours

Successful long-term application of many advanced energy technologies is ultimately based on utilization of materials in 'real world' environmental conditions. The physical/mechanical properties and application of various materials (k.e. superalloys, refractory metal alloys, ceramics) being employed in advanced energy applications are discussed. Several advanced energy technologies (i.e. fuel cells, nuclear energy, and others) are covered with emphasis on how the selection of advanced materials enhances their commercial application. Prerequisite(s): MAT 501 and MAT 502 or permission of instructor.

MEE 508. Principles of Material Selections. 3 Hours

Basic scientific and practical considerations involved in the intelligent selection of materials for specific applications. Impact of new developments in materials technology and analytical techniques. Prerequisite(s): MEE 501 or permission of instructor.

MEE 509. Introduction to Polymer Science-Thermoplastics. 3 Hours

Broad technical overview of the nature of synthetic macromolecules, including the formation of polymers and their structure - property relationships, ploymer characterization and processing, and the application of ploymers. Fundamental topics such as viscoelasticity, the glassy state, time-temperature superposition, polymer transitions, and free volume will also be reviewed. The course focuses on thermoplastic polymers. Prerequisite(s): Organic chemistry; college physics, differential equations.

MEE 511. Advanced Thermodynamics. 3 Hours

Equilibrium, first law, second law, state principle, and zeroth law; development of entropy and temperature from availability concepts; chemical potential, chemical equilibrium, and phase equilibrium. Thermodynamics of irreversible processes; Onsager reciprocal relations; application of these concepts to direct energy conversion.

MEE 517. Radiation Heat Transfer. 3 Hours

Fundamental relationships of radiation heat transfer. Radiation characteristics of surfaces. Geometric considerations in radiation exchange between surfaces. Emissivity and absorptivity of gases. Introduction to radiative exchange in gases.

MEE 519. Analytical Dynamics. 3 Hours

Dynamical analysis of a system of particles and rigid bodies; Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulation of equations of motion; classical integrals of motion. Stability analysis of linear and nonlinear systems. Prerequisite(s): (EGM 202; MTH 219) or equivalent.

MEE 520. Theoretical Kinematics. 3 Hours

Introduction to the mathematical theory underlying the analysis of general spatial motion. Analysis of mechanical systems including robots, mechanisms, walking machines and mechanical hands using linear algebra, quaternion and screw formulations. Fundamental concepts include forward and inverse kinematics, workspace, Jacobians, and singularities.

MEE 521. Kinematic Principles in Design. 3 Hours

Study of the use of kinematic principles in the design of mechanical systems including robots, planar and spatial mechanisms, robotic platforms and systems modeled by jointed rigid bodies. The formulation and solution of design problems involving the sizing and placement of these mechanical systems to accomplish specific tasks is the primary goal. Mathematicl tools are introduced to account for singularity avoidance and joint limitations.

MEE 522. Geometric Methods in Kinematics. 3 Hours

Trajectories and velocities of moving bodies are designed and analyzed via the principles of classical differential and algebraic geometry. Fundamentals include centrodes, instantaneous invariants, resultants and center point design curves. Curves, surfaces, metrics, manifolds and geodesics in spaces of more than three dimensions are analyzed to study multi-parameter systems.

MEE 524. Electrochemical Power. 3 Hours

The course will cover fundamental as well as engineering aspects of fuel cell technology. Specifically, the course will cover basic principles of electrochemistry, electrical conductivity (electronic and ionic) of solids, and development/design of major fuel cells (alkaline, polymer electrolyte, phosphoric acid, molten carbonate, and solid oxide). A major part of the course will focus on solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), as it is emerging to be dominant among various fuel cell technologies. The SOFC can readily and safely use many common hydrocarbon fuels such as natural gas, diesel, gasoline, alcohol, and coal gas. Prerequisite(s): MEE 301, MEE 312, or permission of instructor.

MEE 525. Principles in Corrosion. 3 Hours

Theoretical and practical application of electrochemical principles to the field of corrosion covering thermodynamics, kinetics, forms of corrosion in areas of biomedical engineering, aerospace, automotive and marine environments. Prerequisite(s): MEE 501.

MEE 526. Aerospace Fuels Science. 3 Hours

Basic elements of hydrocarbon fuel production including petroleum based fuels and alternative fuels. Fuel properties, specifications, handling, and logistics. Introduction to chemical kinetics and the chemistry associated with liquid phase thermal-oxidative degradation of fuels. Introduction to the computational modeling of fuel thermal stability and fuel systems. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.

MEE 527. Automatic Control Theory. 3 Hours

Stability and performance of automatic control systems. Classical methods of analysis including transfer functions, time-domain solutions, root locus, and frequency response methods. Modern control theory techniques including state variable analysis, transformation to companion forms, controllability, pole placement, observability, and observer systems. Prerequisites: ELE 432 or MEE 439 or Equivalent.

MEE 528. Robot Modeling. 3 Hours

This course covers the fundamentals of modeling the movement of spatial systems with a focus on robots, particularly industrial robots. Topics include planar and spatial robotics, forward kinematics including the Denavit-Hartenberg formalism, inverse kinematics, manipulator velocities and the robotics-specific Jacobian, static loads in robots, and the product-of-exponentials formalism. Prerequisites: MEE 321 (or instructor approval).

MEE 529. Analysis of Linear Systems. 3 Hours

State variable representation of linear systems and its relationship to the frequency domain representation using transfer functions and the Laplace transform. State transition matrix and solution of the state equation, stability, controllability, observability, state feedback and state observers are studied. Students are expected to have completed an undergraduate controls class and a linear algebra class. Prerequisites: MEE 439 (or equivalent).

MEE 530. Biomechanical Engineering. 3 Hours

Application of engineering principles to clinical, occupational, and sports biomechanics topics. The course focuses on biomechanical analysis, particularly kinematics and kinetics of human movement, with emphasis on both research and product design. Prerequisite(s): EGM 202; EGR 201.

MEE 531. Experimental Methods in Biomechanics. 3 Hours

This course is focused on developing and applying advanced experimentation skills with a specific focus on techniques associated with the study of human movement. Emphasis on equipment and technology, data analysis and interpretation, statistical methods, and technical reporting.

MEE 533. Theory of Elasticity. 3 Hours

Three-dimensional stress and strain at a point; equations of elasticity in Cartesian and curvilinear coordinates; methods of formulation of equations for solution; plane stress and plane strain; energy formulations; numerical solution procedures. Prerequisite(s): EGM 303 or EGM 330. Corequisite(s): MEE 503.

MEE 537. Autonomous Systems. 3 Hours

At the intersection of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, autonomous systems involve the implementation of mechatronic technologies which operate independently (autonomously) from human intervention. This course emphasizes the practical implementation of modern control systems for the purposes of creating fully- or semi-autonomous systems. Topics include programming syntax and structure, integration of peripherals (sensors and actuators) with controllers, and data communications both within and external to the systems. Equal mix of lecture and laboratory with significant time dedicated to advanced design projects. Prerequisites: Undergraduate electronics course. Corequisites: Course in controls.

MEE 538. Introduction to Aeroelasticity. 3 Hours

Study of the effect of aerodynamic forces on a flexible aircraft. Flexibility coefficients and natural modes of vibration. Quasi-steady aerodynamics. Static aeroelastic problems; wing divergence and dynamic aeroelasticity; wing flutter. An introduction to structural stability augmentation with controls. Prerequisite(s): AEE 501.

MEE 539. Theory of Plasticity. 3 Hours

Fundamentals of plasticity theory including elastic, viscoelastic, and elastic-plastic constitutive models; plastic deformation on the macroscopic and microscopic levels; stress-strain relations in the plastic regime; strain hardening; limit analysis; numerical procedures. Prerequisite(s): MEE 503 or MEE 533.

MEE 541. Experimental Mechanics of Composite Materials. 3 Hours

Introduction to the mechanical response of fiber-reinforced composite materials with emphasis on the development of experimental methodology. Analytical topics include stress-strain behavior of anisotropic materials, laminate mechanics, and strength analysis. Theoretical models are applied to the analysis of experimental techniques used for characterizing composite materials. Lectures are supplemented by laboratory sessions in which characterization tests are performed on contemporary composites. Prerequisite(s): EGM 303 or EGM 330.

MEE 542. Advanced Composites. 3 Hours

Materials and processing. Comprehensive introduction to advanced fiber reinforced polymeric matrix composites. Constituent materials and composite processing will be emphasized with special emphasis placed on structure-property relationships, the role of the matrix in composite processing, mechanical behavior and laminate processing. Specific topics will include starting materials, material forms, processing, quality assurance, test methods and mechanical behavior. Prerequisite(s): (MEE 501 or MEE 509) or permission of instructor.

MEE 543. Analytical Mechanics of Composite Materials. 3 Hours

Analytical models are developed to predicting the mechanical and thermal behavior of fiber-reinforced composite materials as a function of constituent material properties. Both continuous and discontinuous fiber-reinforced systems are considered. Specific topics include basic mechanics of anisotropic materials, micromechanics, lamination theory, free-edge effects, and failure criteria. Prerequisite(s): EGM 303 or EGM 330.

MEE 545. Computational Methods for Design. 3 Hours

Modeling of mechanical systems and structures, analysis by analytical and numerical methods, development of mechanical design criteria and principles of optimum design, selected topics in mechanical design and analysis, use of the digital computer as an aid in the design of mechanical elements. Prerequisite(s): Computer programming.

MEE 546. Finite Element Analysis I. 3 Hours

Fundamental development of the Finite Element Method (FEM), and solution of field problems and comprehensive structural problems, variational principles and weak-forms; finite element discretization; shape functions; finite elements for field problems; bar, beam, plate, and shell elements; isoparametric finite elements; stiffness, nodal force, and mass matrices; matrix assembly procedures; computer dosing techniques; modeling decisions; program output interpretation. Course emphasis on a thorough understanding of FEM theory and modeling techniques. Prerequisite(s): MEE 503 or MEE 533.

MEE 547. Finite Element Analysis II. 3 Hours

Advanced topics: heat transfer; transient dynamics; nonlinear analysis; substructuring and static condensation; effects of inexact numerical integration and element incompatibility; patch test; frontal solution techniques; selected topics from the recent literature. Prerequisite(s): MEE 546.

MEE 551. Noise & Vibration Control. 3 Hours

The concepts of noise and vibration control applied to mechanical systems. Methodologies covered will include: passive treatments using resistive elements (sound absorbers, vibration damping) and reactive elements (tailoring of material stiffness and mass); active control of sound and vibration; and numerical analysis. Prerequisites: MEE 439.

MEE 554. Biomechanical Modeling. 3 Hours

The course will focus on biomechanical modeling, specifically, computational modeling of the human body's bones, joints, and muscles and the motion of the human body. Emphasis on representing aspects of the body computationally (through equations and as mechanical systems) and applying modeling and simulation to analyze the motion of a human.

MEE 555. Turbulence. 3 Hours

Origin, evolution, and dynamics of fully turbulent flows. Description of statistical theory, spectral dynamics, and the energy cascade. Characteristics of wall-bounded and free turbulent shear flows. Reynolds stress models. Prerequisite(s): MEE 504 or equivalent.

MEE 556. Applied Robotics. 3 Hours

Within this course, focus will be on project-based learning with robotic systems. Extensive usage of student kits and industrial robotic platforms will enable hands-on learning experiences, which will encourage students to think critically and deepen their knowledge through experimentation. Using a combination of online learning content and classroom lectures, multiple comprehensive projects will be covered, such as a drawing robot, a webcam-controlled rover or industrial arm, and/or a self-balancing motorcycle. Students will use software (MATLAB, Simulink, ROS) programming to implement model-based design, control systems, image and signal processing, and more. The major learning objective is for students to get prepared for real-life environments by using the same tools as industry professionals.

MEE 557. Non-Linear Systems & Control. 3 Hours

Introduction to nonlinear phenomena in dynamical systems. A study of the major techniques of nonlinear system analysis including phase plane analysis and Lyapunov stability theory. Application of the analytical techniques to control system design including feedback linearization, backstepping, and sliding mode control. Student are expected to have completed an undergraduate controls course. Prerequisites: MEE 439.

MEE 558. Computational Fluid Dynamics. 3 Hours

Numerical solution to Navier-Stokes equations and approximations such as the boundary layer equations for air-flow about a slender body. Numerical techniques for the solution of the transonic small disturbance equations. Numerical determination of fluid instabilities. Prerequisite(s): MEE 504 or permission of instructor.

MEE 559. Engineering Systems for the Common Good. 3 Hours

In this course we will mathematically examine a number of social systems and develop quantitative models describing their behavior. We will review and learn fundamental systems theory concepts, such as block diagrams, feedback loops, and continuous and discrete-time dynamics, as needed. You will apply these concepts to mathematically model and analyze social systems, and in this process, you will learn how the powerful ideal of Human Rights is understood via social system models. You will learn how to study and numerically simulate social dynamics in a methodical, mathematical manner. You will use simulation software to numerically investigate and understand social systems such as sustainability, homelessness, environmental justice, the poverty cycle, and others. For each system, we will highlight its connections to specific human rights. At the conclusion of the course, you will have achieved a deeper understanding of the connection between engineering principles and tools, human rights, and the common good. Students are expected to have a background in differential equations. Prerequisites: MTH 219 (or equivalent).

MEE 560. Propulsion Systems. 3 Hours

Introduction and history, types of propulsion systems, thermodynamics review and simple cycle analysis, thermodynamics of high speed gas flow, aircraft gas turbine engine, parametric cycle analysis of various types of gas turbine engines, component and engine performance analyses (inter-turbine burners), advanced cycles with regeneration, reheating, and inter-cooling, variable and inverse cycle engines, hybrid propulsion systems (turbo-ramjets, rocket-ram-scramjets, etc.) advanced propulsion systems, pulse detonation engine theory and concepts, thermal management of high-speed flight, energy management and vehicle synthesis. Prerequisite(s): (MEE 413 or MEE 513) or permission of instructor.

MEE 562. Intermediate Thermodynamics. 3 Hours

Intermediate thermodynamics is the study of energy management and material property manipulation to design energy systems which achieve some engineering goal. This course expands upon the undergraduate engineering thermodynamics course, emphasizing the application of thermodynamic concepts towards energy system design. Over the duration of this course, students will gain a graduate-level understanding of undergraduate thermodynamics concepts. Additionally, new methods for applying basic undergraduate concepts will be introduced along with computational methods. Both analytical and computer solutions of engineering thermodynamics problems are emphasized.

MEE 563. Intermediate Heat Transfer. 3 Hours

In this course, student’s will build on their knowledge of heat transfer gained in their first required undergraduate heat transfer course. This class will focus especially on 1) analytical solutions of fundamental heat transfer equations and 2) The analysis of more complicated heat transfer systems, including multi-modal problems, radiative enclosures and heat exchangers. All techniques will focus on pen-and-paper solutions but some computer programming will be necessary to determine final answers. This is a companion class to Applied Heat Transfer, a class focused on numerical solution of fundamental heat transfer equations and their application to real-world heat transfer problems.

MEE 564. Applied Heat Transfer. 3 Hours

In this course, student’s will build on their knowledge of heat transfer gained in their first required undergraduate heat transfer course. This class will focus especially on numerical solutions of fundamental heat transfer equations, including conduction, convection and radiation. All techniques will focus on programmed solutions but pen and paper work will be necessary to determine final answers. This is a companion class to Intermediate Heat Transfer, a class focused on analytical solutions of fundamental heat transfer equations.

MEE 565. Fundamentals of Fuels & Combustion. 3 Hours

Heat of combustion and flame temperature calculations; rate of chemical reaction and Arrhenius relationship; theory of thermal explosions and the concept of ignition delay and critical mass; phenomena associated with hydrocarbon-air combustion; specific applications of combustion.

MEE 568. Internal Combustion Engines. 3 Hours

Study of combustion and energy release processes. Applications to spark and compression ignition, jet, rocket, and gas turbine engines. Special emphasis given to understanding of air pollution problems caused by internal combustion engines. Idealized and actual cycles are studied in preparation for laboratory testing of internal combustion engines.

MEE 569. Energy Efficient Buildings. 3 Hours

Provides knowledge and skills necessary to design and operate healthier, more comfortable, more productive, and less environmentally destructive buildings; A specific design target of E/3 (typical energy use divided by three) is established as a goal. Economic, thermodynamic, and heat transfer analyses are utilized. Extensive software development. Prerequisite(s): MEE 410.

MEE 570. Fracture Mechanics. 3 Hours

Application of the principles of fracture mechanics to problems associated with fatigue and fracture in engineering structures. The course will cover the development of models that apply to a range of materials, geometries, and loading conditions. Prerequisite(s): MEE 506 or permission of instructor.

MEE 573. Renewable Energy Systems. 3 Hours

Introduction to the impact of energy on the economy and environment. Engineering models of solar thermal and photovoltaic systems. Introduction to wind power. Fuel cells and renewable sources of hydrogen.

MEE 575. Fracture & Fatigue of Metals & Alloys I. 3 Hours

This course will cover the effects of microstructure on the fracture and fatigue behavior of engineering metals and alloys, with a special emphasis on static and dynamic brittle and ductile failures and static fatigue crack initiation. Alloy fracture resistance, fracture toughness, fatigue behavior, and methods to improve fracture and fatigue behavior will be discussed in detail. The role of materials reliability in life management of advanced alloys in turbine engines and aircraft will be reviewed, and key practical aspects will be discuss. Various analytical techniques for failure analysis of structural components will be presented. Prerequisite(s): (MEE 501 or MEE 506) or permission of instructor.

MEE 576. Fracture & Fatigue of Metals & Alloys II. 3 Hours

This course will cover the areas of the effects of microstructure on fatigue crack propagation and on final fracture by fatigue. This will include fatigue life prediction, using damage-tolerance approach to component-design and microstructural and structural synthesis for optimum behavior. Specific material-related aspects of fatigue crack propagation mechanisms for optimum damage tolerant behavior, and the related reliability and failure analysis, will be covered. A comprehensive project in failure-analysis of aerospace metallic components will also be conducted. Prerequisite(s): MEE 575 or equivalent.

MEE 579. Computer Aided Mechanical Design. 3 Hours

Introduction to computer methods used to facilitate mechanical design. Design using the finite element method, mechanism design, and statistical techniques. Design of components (shafts, springs, etc.) using computer techniques will be combined with the design process to design mechanical systems. Integration of manufacturer's literature into the design. Team design project will be included. Prerequisite(s): (MEE 427, MEE 432) or equivalent.

MEE 586. Human Movement Assessment. 3 Hours

Students will learn the practical skills to collect data about human movements. Students will learn the analysis skills to process that data and extract important metrics from the data. Students will be able to create and interpret common biomechanical metrics such as kinematic profiles. Human movements related to clinical applications and sports applications will be studied.

MEE 590. Special Problems in Mechanical Engineering. 1-6 Hours

Special assignments in mechanical engineering subject matter to be approved by the student's faculty advisor and the department chair.

MEE 595. Mechanical Engineering Project. 0-6 Hours

Student participation in a departmental research, design, or development project under the direction of a project advisor. The student must show satisfactory progress as detemined by the project advisor and present a written report at the conclusion of the project.

MEE 599. Mechanical Engineering Thesis. 1-3 Hours

Mechanical Engineering Thesis.

MEE 690. Selected Readings in Mechanical Engineering. 1-6 Hours

Directed readings in a designated area arranged and approved by the student's doctoral advisory committee and the department chair. May be repeated. (A) Materials, (B) Thermal Sciences, (C) Fluid Mechanics, (D) Solid Mechanics (E) Mechanical Design, or (F) Integrated Manufacturing.

MEE 698. DE Dissertation. 1-15 Hours

An original investigation as applied to mechanical engineering practice. Results must be of sufficient importance to merit publication.

MEE 699. PHD Dissertation. 1-3 Hours

An original research effort which makes a definite contribution to technical knowledge. Results must be of sufficient importance to merit publication.