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Introducing Math Software and EM Software to Enhance the Vector Field Understanding in EM Classes

Abstract

Electromagnetics(EM) is a traditionally difficult subject for engineering students. The understanding of the field concepts requires a lot of advanced mathematical knowledge and analytical ability. This course is particularly important for understanding a lot of electrical phenomena.

The objective of this paper is to develop computer assisted materials to generate plots and animations for EM fields. Extensive examples are shown to help illustrate the concepts of static electric field and steady magnetic field, dynamic fields and radiation.

Introduction Whereas the study of electromagnetics has been motivated primarily by military-defense applications, important applications in Electromagnetic Compatibility and Interference (EMC/EMI) study in high-speed communications and computing has attracted attention recently. Those applications will favorably impact the economic well-being as well as military security. The advancement of technology involve electromagnetic interference in high-speed circuit, EM guidance and radiation in communication systems, advanced medical equipment, and nanotechnology and the implementation of available electronics functions to optical frequencies. As a result, these renewed EM applications in all the engineering areas require better understanding and grasp of the electromagnetic field and waves concepts for the engineering students.

An introduction of EM static field is normally included in a sophomore level physics class. However the depth and coverage are rather limited. A junior level course in basic electromagnetics is normally in the core curriculum for students majored in electrical engineering. Electromagnetics is a difficult subject due to the requirement of advanced mathematical and analytical background. Students often find it discouraging and uninteresting. However, this course is particularly important for understanding a lot of electrical phenomena, from electronics circuit theory and communication system, to the operation of electromechanical systems.

To keep up with the advancements of EM technology, to help the students to understand the basic concepts in a more effective way, and to make the course more interesting, the current EM course at the engineering department at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) needs improvement. More computer simulation and visualization features will be introduced to help the students have better physical concepts understanding. In addition, radio frequency (RF) and microwave courses following the fundamental engineering electromagnetics course will be developed.

Course Curriculum at IPFW:

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Zhao, T. (2007, June), Introducing Math Software And Electromagnetics Simulation Software To Enhance The Vector Field Understanding In Em Classes Paper presented at 2007 Annual Conference & Exposition, Honolulu, Hawaii. 10.18260/1-2--1757