Conference Session

Automation, Instrumentation, and Computer Simulations

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Alamgir A. Choudhury, Western Michigan University; Jorge Rodriguez P.E., Western Michigan University

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

marketdominance. In this paper, the design of a manually powered hydraulic bicycle using energyefficiency as a primary design objective is presented. A laboratory setup is developed to testperformance of the hydraulic system components. Experimental analysis of component behaviorof a functional prototype of the hydraulic system is performed. The analysis result is used to selectcomponents for optimum performance of the system in its desired operational conditions. Themethodology can be utilized in design of similar systems where energy efficiency is a primarydesign objective.1. IntroductionWorldwide, the vast majority of energy is produced from fossil-based fuels resulting in theincrease of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere [1]. In the area of fluid power

Conference Session

Assessment, Course, and Curricular Development

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Ryan L. Falkenstein-Smith, Syracuse University; Ryan James Milcarek, Syracuse University; Michael J. Garrett, Syracuse University; Jeongmin Ahn, Syracuse University

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

currently works as a Research Assistant in the Combustion and Energy Research Laboratory (COMER). His current research is focused on new catalyst development, ceramic materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), combustion, energy conversion, fuel cell modeling, fuel cell technology applications and system design. Ryan is a Syracuse University Graduate Fellow and an Astronaut Scholar.Mr. Michael J. Garrett, Syracuse University Michael Garrett is an incoming graduate student at Syracuse University. Throughout his undergraduate career he developed an interest in energy systems which encouraged him to pursue energy related research. During the summer of 2015, Michael began working as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in

Conference Session

Automation, Instrumentation, and Computer Simulations

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Radian G. Belu, University of Alaska, Anchorage; Lucian Ionel Cioca, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

telecommunications fields.While students interested in communication networks typically have a computer science orengineering background. This divergence results in many challenges for the coeducation of suchprofessionals and students. We are discussing our approach in the design, development andimplementation of an undergraduate course, and the associate laboratory on smart grids. Projectchallenges include the selection of most appropriate course level, content and topics, textbooks,additional learning materials, laboratory experiments, inclusion or not an end-of-semesterproject, or field trips, etc. Two fundamental issues characterize smart grid education:multidisciplinary education and integrative nature of the smart grid solutions. 1

Conference Session

Assessment, Course, and Curricular Development

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Glenn T. Wrate P.E., Northern Michigan University

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

Semester 2015 offeringof the course the students were given laboratory projects where they used a Doble F6150e PowerSystem Simulator to test either a Schweitzer Engineering Labs SEL-221F microprocessor-basedrelay or a Westinghouse (ABB) Type CO electromechanical relay. The test setup for testing theSEL -221F is shown in Figure 8 below. Figure 8. Protective Relay Testing Lab SetupBased on employer input, the electromechanical relays were not included in the Winter Semester2016 lab assignments, and will not be included in the future. Also based on employers’comments, the students performed the tests individually rather than in teams. This allowed thestudents to gain experience in all aspects of testing – setting

Conference Session

Solar and Wind Energy-System Initiatives

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Jaime Ramos-Salas P.E., University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley; Jose Ramirez, University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley; Hiram Moya, University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley; Jose Luis Saldivar Jr, University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

other engineering schools at lowcost.3- USE of PEDAGOGICAL THEORY The authors believe in the model of hands-on laboratories and computer simulation as thebest suited method to attain the educational objectives and outcomes.Traditional pedagogical methods in engineering often favor lecture based teaching but theauthors believe in the model of hands-on laboratories and computer simulation as the best suitedmethod to attain the educational objectives and outcomes. This thinking and practice issupported by research that has focused on a hands-on, active learning approach to teachingengineering concepts [4, 5]. Active learning has long been believed to be an ideal form ofinstruction compared to a more passive approach to teaching particularly

Conference Session

Solar and Wind Energy-System Initiatives

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Adeel Khalid, Kennesaw State University; Christopher Douglas Roper, Kennesaw State University

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

laboratory experience. Performed engineering and scientific appli- cations under engineers and scientists as a materials intern, physics and engineering researcher/teacher’s assistant, and mechanical engineer coop. Placed 2nd in the 2015 FRC Technical Research Exhibition Poster Presentation and 3rd in the 2015 FRC Technical Research Exhibition Oral Presentation in Region III for National Society of Black Engineers. c American Society for Engineering Education, 2016 Research Learning Experience while Designing Wind Turbine for Low Speed Wind ApplicationsAbstractExtracting the maximum amount of energy in various slow wind regions using low-speed windturbines has provided

Conference Session

Solar and Wind Energy-System Initiatives

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Ulan Dakeev, Texas A&M University, Kingsville; Farzin Heidari, Texas A&M University, Kingsville; Faruk Yildiz, Sam Houston State University; Marija Dimitrovska, Texas A&M University, Kingsville; Kenan Baltaci, University of Wisconsin, Stout

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

-constructed wind augmentation devices: cone-shaped wind guide and a flanged diffuser shroud.A group of Industrial Technology students will develop both diffuser shrouds that will collectand accelerate the incoming wind. The tests will be carried out for three wind velocities (5 mphto 15 mph) in a laboratory setting to compare the influences of two shrouding devices on thepower output. A small scale horizontal axis wind turbine will be used with 400 Watt powerrating. The study will report the comparative measurements performed on an experimental small-scale wind turbine attached for both shrouding devices. Introduction Large scale wind shrouding devices are expensive to build and maintain, however, if

Conference Session

Diverse Issues in Renewable Energy

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Farshid Zabihian, West Virginia University Institute of Technology

Tagged Topics

Diversity

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

indicated that they had enjoyable time in the class and the class setting helpedthem to both have fun and learn better.References[1] National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), “Science Projects in Renewable Energy andEnergy Efficiency: A guide for Secondary School Teachers”, http://www.nrel.gov/education/pdfs/educational_resources/high_school/re_ee_projects.pdf[2] National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), “Research Projects in Renewable Energyfor High School Students”, http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/06/f16/highschool_projects.pdf[3] Illinois Valley Community College, “Renewable Energy Projects for the Classroom”,http://www2.ivcc.edu/mimic/nsf/Resources%20for%20Teachers/Renewable%20Energy%20Projects%20-%20Handbook.pdf[4] The Union of

Conference Session

CAPSTONE (SENIOR) DESIGN AND UNDERGRADUATE PROJECTS

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Irina Nicoleta Ciobanescu Husanu, Drexel University ; Michael G. Mauk, Drexel University

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

including design and development of pilot testing facility, mechanical instrumentation, and industrial applications of aircraft engines. Also, in the past 10 years she gained experience in teaching ME and ET courses in both quality control and quality assurance areas as well as in thermal-fluid, energy conversion and mechanical areas from various levels of instruction and addressed to a broad spectrum of students, from freshmen to seniors, from high school graduates to adult learners. She also has extended experience in curriculum development. Dr Husanu developed laboratory activities for Measurement and Instrumentation course as well as for quality control undergraduate and graduate courses in ET Masters program. Also

Conference Session

Automation, Instrumentation, and Computer Simulations

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Thomas E. McDermott, University of Pittsburgh; Renee M. Clark, University of Pittsburgh

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

other electrical engineering courses, with benefits notedby both students and instructors. For example, this approach was taken in an undergraduatepower electronics course, and survey respondents noted that the on-line quizzes were beneficialto their understanding13. Remote laboratories sometimes comprise blended learningenvironments. In the area of control theory, a remote lab was used so that students couldremotely experiment and integrate the practical with the theoretical aspects of the course14. Asimilar goal was noted in another controls engineering course, in which a web-based simulatorwas used to complement the theoretical-based lectures15. In this controls course, there was anincrease from 63% to 79% on an end-of-course exam, when

Conference Session

Solar and Wind Energy-System Initiatives

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Linfeng Zhang, University of Bridgeport

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

Renewable Energy Laboratory: Expert Tools. Available: http://www.solmetric.com/annualinsolation-us.html[7] A. D. James Larminie, Fuel cell systems explained (2nd edition): WILEY, 2003.

Conference Session

Diverse Issues in Renewable Energy

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Efrain O'Neill-Carrillo, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus; Agustin Irizarry-Rivera P.E., University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus; Cecilio Ortiz, University of Puerto Rico-INESI; Marla D. Perez-Lugo, University of Puerto Rico, Mayguez Campus

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

projects with communities in Puerto Rico since 2002. Eight undergraduate electrical engineering students participated in three different capstone projects related to improving water service in rural communities, in particular improving the electrical system for the pump that takes water from the community well. In one of the projects, the team included students from Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineering, as well as Surveying and Biology students, and students from Purdue University15. Acting as Faculty mentor in the UICD broadened the policy horizon of Dr. O’Neill and was an invaluable capacity building experience that helped in future policy work. Another example of a community-based project is the photovoltaic (PV) laboratory at Casa

Conference Session

CAPSTONE (SENIOR) DESIGN AND UNDERGRADUATE PROJECTS

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Hayrettin B. Karayaka, Western Carolina University; Robert D. Adams, Western Carolina University

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

. WCU FacilitiesManagement division has sought help in designing a project that will accomplish these goals. A10 kW grid-tied PV system has been proposed that will be centrally located on campus. Thesystem will serve as a living, learning laboratory for the campus community. The solar panels forthe system will be mounted on three structures approximately 10 to 14 feet off the ground, whichwill also provide shade and shelter from the elements. Underneath the solar panels will bebenches, tables, electrical outlets, and special hooks for students to hang hammocks. A smallgarden featuring native plant life will be planted around the solar panel structure. Smallinformational signage will be displayed throughout the garden informing visitors about

Conference Session

Automation, Instrumentation, and Computer Simulations

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Xavier Shastri Domnique Henry, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore; Madhumi Mitra Ph.D., University of Maryland, Eastern Shore; Abhijit Nagchaudhuri, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore; Lei Zhang, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

activities were internalized, benefitted their development, and could possibly be improved to maximize impact on subsequent cohorts.A. Academic outcomes from the project C.1 The objectives of this project were consistent with my research interests C.2 This experiential learning project had an impact on my hands-on/laboratory skills and data collecting skills Which one(s) in particular? C.3 This project had an impact on my presentation skills Which ones(s) in particular? C.4 This project developed my technical skills C.5 This activity enhanced my content knowledge? C.6 I was able to integrate knowledge from many different sources and disciplines (example, chemistry, biology, engineering, technology, computer science, environmental sciences, etc)B

Conference Session

Solar and Wind Energy-System Initiatives

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Sandip Das, Kennesaw State University

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

alone, nearly31,000 new jobs in the solar industry have been created in the U.S. bringing the total to 173,807– about 22% increase since 20131,2. Thus, it is of utmost importance to produce skilled engineersfor this rapidly growing industry by providing effective hands-on education at the universitylevel. Hands-on laboratory exercises substantially help to reinforce the theoretical knowledgegained from the lecture – thus improving the student learning outcome. In addition, it also helpsto develop the important experiment design, data acquisition, and data analysis skills desired bythe industry and are highly beneficial for future graduate level research. This paper discusses onthe development of a low-cost, portable and programmable smart solar

Conference Session

CAPSTONE (SENIOR) DESIGN AND UNDERGRADUATE PROJECTS

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Herbert L. Hess, University of Idaho, Moscow; Edward James William Jr, Solved Engineering LLC

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

 battery and its nonlinear response to charging conditions.  To account for these effects, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was designed to run on a MSP430 microcontroller.  The ANN was developed and trained with data acquired from a mathematical model and laboratory testing of a Li/CFx cell.  The ANN uses voltage, current, and ambient temperature for its inputs, computes the State of Charge (SOC) of the cell, and displays its results on a five­LED array.  A team of five students, all but one of them undergraduates, worked on this project and learned from it for over 30 months.  Their learning is based on methods proposed  5​by one of the authors nearly a decade ago.​   Their success led to a

Conference Session

Diverse Issues in Renewable Energy

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Keith E. Holbert P.E., Arizona State University; Taipeng Zhang, Arizona State University

Tagged Topics

Diversity

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

the topic in general,they can be much more thorough in their research. This debate helps them discover and exploremuch more than they learn in the lectures. Knowing how to solder electrical components could be a worthwhile skill for constructingsome of the projects. With this in mind, a laboratory session is planned for the students about thebasics of soldering, as well as the basics of electronic devices. This aids their attaining a morepractical perspective of the theoretical concepts that they have heard. For the practice session,each of the students and teachers is given a soldering kit containing instructions and materials tobuild a basic 555 timer circuit. This practical work is fun and interesting, given the fact that theyall have

Conference Session

Diverse Issues in Renewable Energy

Collection

2016 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Mary Slowinski , M.Ed., CREATE NSF-ATE; Kenneth A. Walz, Madison Area Technical College; Kathleen Alfano, College of the Canyons

Tagged Topics

Diversity

Tagged Divisions

Energy Conversion and Conservation

Research Organization Energy Centre (similar to theU.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory). An overview of the Australian itinerary is shownin table 1; for more detailed descriptions of sites visited, please see Appendix B.Table 1 - Itinerary for the Australia International Renewable Energy Learning Exchange, 2013 Date Institution Visited 3/12 TAFE Directors Meeting, Sydney 3/12 Northern Sydney Institute of TAFE 3/13 Western Sydney Institute of TAFE, Nirimba Campus 3/13 Western Sydney Institute of TAFE, Richmond Campus 3/13 Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization Energy Centre 3/14 Canberra Institute of Technology 3/16 Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE 3/18 Chisholm