Atch_15_DFMECurriculum.pdf

FA700020R0002

Section L, Annex L3

Department of Mechanical Engineering (DFME) Curriculum

Introduction

The following information is provided for informational purposes to assist potential offerors in understanding cadet courses and curriculum. It describes the major offered by DFEM as well as the courses offered by the department. The information is current as of the publication of the USAFA 2019-2020 Curriculum Handbook, but is subject to changes in the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) curriculum and cadet learning requirements. For the most current information, please consult the USAFA Registrar’s webpage at:

http://www.usafa.edu/df/dfr/curriculum/handbook.cfm.

DFME Department Major: Mechanical Engineering

The following excerpt from the USAFA Curriculum Handbook describes the USAFA Mechanical Engineering major, discusses potential USAF officer assignments that may require this major, and provides other information that might be helpful to cadets when choosing an academic major at the USAF Academy.

THE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING MAJOR AT A GLANCE: Mechanical Engineering is essentially the engineering of systems—designing, building, and testing the coupled interactions of components, power, and information. There are incredible mechanical engineering systems in aerospace and automotive hardware, power generation facilities, and manufacturing. Because systems bring together the engineering of mechanics and motion, thermodynamics and fluids, materials and structures, and control, Mechanical Enginnering is a broad discipline of design and analysis. If you aren’t sure what engineering discipline to pursue right now and you want to keep your options open, this foundational major may be perfect for you. Mechanical Engineering is also flexible, enabling focus in a variety of areas: failure analysis, aerospace structures, dynamics, or thermal-fluid systems. If understanding, building, and utilizing state-of-the-art materials (e.g., composites and ceramics) and manufacturing processes (e.g., “3-D” printing) intrigues you, this challenging major may be right for you. The USAFA Mechanical Engineering major is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

The Vision of the Department of Engineering Mechanics, which administers the Mechanical Engineering Program, is to provide a World-Class Engineering Education for the Military Profession. To ensure the success of our graduates, we prepare them to attain Program Educational Objectives two to five years after graduation. These are:

1) Recognition as successful Air Force officers through demonstration of their ability to:

a. Rapidly acquire required knowledge,

b. Lead others effectively,

c. Effectively apply ethical and moral standards,

d. Improve unit performance by application of organizational skills,

e. Make sound decisions based on critical thinking, and

f. Communicate effectively.

2) Selection for career training on, or ahead of, schedule, and for a progression of assignments of increasing responsibility.

3) A demonstrated ability to solve Air Force technical problems.

4) Success in continuing education.

The foundation that prepares graduates for attaining the Program Educational Objectives is provided by Student Learning Outcomes. Student Learning Outcomes describe what students must attain prior to graduation. These relate to the skills, knowledge, and behaviors that students acquire as they progress through the program. These Student Learning Outcomes are:

1) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics,

2) an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors,

3) an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences,

4) an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economics, environmental, and societal contexts

5) an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives,

6) an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions, and

7) an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Incorporated within these outcomes, Mechanical Engineering majors must apply principles of engineering, basic science, and mathematics (including multivariate calculus and differential equations) to model, analyze, design, and realize physical systems, components or processes; and work professionally in both thermal and mechanical systems areas. In addition, graduates must demonstrate design competence that includes integration of mechanical engineering topics.

A degree in Mechanical Engineering, with few exceptions, qualifies you for most every Air Force operational and support occupation. Within engineering, you can get an assignment as a mechanical engineer, aeronautical engineer, civil engineer, astronautical engineer, or project engineer. The Mechanical Engineering major also satisfies the educational requirements for Air Force Test Pilot, Flight Test Navigator, and Flight Test Engineer duties. Additional specialties are Scientific Analyst and Acquisition Project Officer.

If you are a top performer in the Mechanical Engineering major, graduate school can be an option as a first Air Force assignment, either through direct departmental sponsorship or by winning a prestigious national scholarship (Draper, Hertz, Rhodes, etc.). The Mechanical Engineering major gives you the flexibility to pursue either a more specialized degree in graduate school or to continue your broad-based study in engineering. Whether you ultimately choose a graduate program in mechanical engineering, aeronautical engineering, astronautical engineering, or materials engineering, your decision will be an informed one.

The Mechanical Engineering major contributes to both the development and assessment of the USAFA Institutional Critical Thinking Outcome.

DFME Department Courses

Mech Engr 220. Fundamentals of Mechanics. An introduction to the fundamental principles of statics and mechanics of materials applied to aerospace systems. Topics include: force and moment equilibrium using free body diagrams and vector algebra; stress, strain, and deformation response of deformable bodies to axial, torsional, flexural, and combined loadings; material properties and selection criteria; and failure modes of materials and structures. Laboratory exercises. Final exam. Prereq: Math 141. Coreq: Physics 110. Sem hrs: 3 fall or spring.

Mech Engr 305. Engineering Tools Seminar. A junior-level seminar course designed to help Mech Engr majors transition into the degree-granting program. Content includes industrial design and fabrication and essential skills required for success in the Mech Engr program.

Emphasis is on hands-on engineering tools with in-class practice using related hardware, software, and program-specific techniques and safe operation of critical lab equipment. No homework or outside preparation required. Prereq: None. Pass/fail. Sem hrs: 1 fall.

Mech Engr 312. Thermodynamics. Fundamental principles of classical equilibrium thermodynamics. Modeling of gas and fluid properties. Thermodynamic processes. Development and application of the first and second laws of thermodynamics to closed and open systems.

Applications to power and refrigeration cycles, and introductory heat transfer. Final exam.

Prereq:Mech Engr 220 and Math 243. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 320. Dynamics. Kinematic and kinetic analysis of particles and rigid bodies, as well as an introduction to mechanical vibrations of simple systems. Topics include kinematics in 2-and 3-dimensions using Cartesian, path, and polar coordinates; kinetics using force-mass acceleration, work-energy, and impulse-momentum methods; introduction to single degree of freedom vibration. Methods emphasize vector solutions. Laboratory exercises. Final exam.

Prereq: Mech Engr 220. Coreq: Math 245. Sem hrs: 3 fall or spring.

Mech Engr 325. Engineering System Dynamics. Modeling, analysis, and design of multidomain engineering systems including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, thermal, and control elements.

Models are developed based on tracking power interactions between system components.

Mathematical models are developed in state space form and are investigated both analytically and numerically. System response to initial conditions and forcing functions is examined. Tools are introduced to predict system stability, behavior, and response to parameter variation. Non-linear models and elementary control systems are introduced. Final exam or final project. Prereq:

Mech Engr 320, ECE 315, and Math 245. Sem hrs: 3 spring.

Mech Engr 330. Mechanics of Deformable Bodies. Axial loading. Statically indeterminate structures. Beam theory: shear and moment diagrams, stress, and deflection. Transformation of stress and strain. Mohr’s circle. Introduction to failure theories. Introduction to material selection criteria. Euler buckling. Stress concentrations. Introduction to energy methods and Castigliano’s theorems. Laboratory exercises. Final exam. Prereq: Mech Engr 220. Coreq: Math 245. Sem hrs:

3 fall or spring.

Mech Engr 332. Aerospace Structures. Analysis and design of lightweight, thin-walled and semi-monocoque structures. Margin of safety. Material selection including strength, stiffness, and weight. Lab. Final exam or final project. Prereq: Mech Engr 330. Coreq: Aero Engr 315 and Mech Engr 320. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 340. Materials Science for Engineers. Survey of engineering applications of non-ferrous and ferrous alloys, polymers, ceramics and composites. Basic crystallographic notation and molecular structure of common engineering materials. Principles of metallurgical thermodynamics and kinetics applied to phase transformations and strengthening mechanisms.

Field trip. Final exam. Prereq: Mech Engr 220. Sem hrs: 3 spring.

Mech Engr 341. Fluid Mechanics. Description of fluid matter. Derivation of the governing equations. Application to hydrostatics, boundary layers, pipe flow, introductory computational fluid dynamics, compressible flow, introduction to turbomachinery (with emphasis on pumps).

Normal shocks and isentropic flow. Final exam. Prereq: Math 245 and Mech Engr 312 or department approval. Sem hrs: 3 spring.

Mech Engr 350. Mechanical Behavior of Materials. Behavior of materials under simple axial, biaxial, and triaxial states of stress. Micromechanisms of elastic and inelastic deformation and strengthening mechanisms. Introduction to linear elastic fracture mechanics. Fatigue failure theories and fatigue crack growth analysis. Applications to design of aerospace vehicles and structures. Final exam. Prereq: Mech Engr 330. Sem hrs: 3 fall or spring.

Mech Engr 370. Introduction to Machine Design. Analysis and design of machine components including shafts, hydrodynamic and rolling element bearings, spur gears, clutches, brakes, and springs. Design of joints using screws, bolts, and welds. Emphasis on stress analysis and design trade-offs. Final exam or final project. Prereq: Mech Engr 320, Mech Engr 330, and Mech Engr

350. Sem hrs: 3 spring.

Mech Engr 396. Mechatronics. Cadets will learn the integration of mechanical and electrical design, applying the design process to develop an integrated electromechanical system autonomously controlled by a microprocessor. Electrical system development topics include digital logic, actuator control, sensor integration, and signal conditioning. Group design projects throughout the semester leading to the integrated final project. Open only to Engineering majors with Department of Engineering Mechanics approval. Final exam or final project. Prereq: ‘B -’ grade or higher in ECE 315. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 405. Mechanical Engineering Design Seminar I. The course is designed to give Mechanical Engineering majors or those cadets considering majoring in Mechanical Engineering an opportunity to participate on one of the various capstone teams offered within the Engineering Mechanics department. This involvement will increase their knowledge of topics within the major as well as increase continuity in the capstone design teams. In addition, it will allow cadets to work on a real-world engineering design problem. Cadets will participate with a capstone team through the duration of the course. This course will meet concurrently with Mech Engr 491.

Pass/withdraw. Prereq: C3C or C2C in good standing. Sem hrs: 0 fall.

Mech Engr 406. Mechanical Engineering Design Seminar II. The course is designed to give Mechanical Engineering majors or those cadets considering majoring in Mechanical Engineering an opportunity to participate on one of the various capstone teams offered within the Engineering Mechanics department. This involvement will increase their knowledge of topics within the major as well as increase continuity in the capstone design teams. In addition, it will allow cadets to work on a real-world engineering design problem. Cadets will participate with a capstone team through the duration of the course. This course will meet concurrently with Mech Engr 492.

Pass/withdraw. Prereq: C4C, C3C, or C2C in good standing. Sem hrs: 0 spring.

Mech Engr 421. Vibrations. Free and forced vibrations of discrete systems. Effect of viscous and other types of damping considered. Matrix methods used to analyze multi-degree-of-freedom systems. Dynamic analysis of continuous systems. Final exam or final project. Prereq: Mech Engr 320 or Physics 355; completed or enrolled in Math 346. Sem hrs: 3 spring of even-numbered years.

Mech Engr 431. Introduction to Finite Element Analysis. Analysis and design of truss, frame, shell, and solid structures using the direct stiffness and energy formulation methods. Topics include: theoretical development of elementary finite elements and models, thermal and dynamic structural analysis, and computer-aided design and analysis projects using commercial, professional software. Final exam or final project. Prereq: Mech Engr 330 and Math 342, Math 344, or Math 346. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 440. Physical Metallurgy. Physical metallurgy related to properties of engineering metals. Study of crystal structure and imperfections, diffusion, thermodynamics, phases and phase transformations, and material processing and how each alters material properties.

Discussion of specific metals/alloy systems and design philosophies for new alloys.

Thermomechanical strengthening design project and semester-long knife design and construction project. Final project. Prereq: Mech Engr 340. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 441. Heat Transfer. Study of thermal radiation, steady and transient conduction, convection (laminar and turbulent, internal and external flow, boundary layers, and empirical correlations). Analytical and numerical solution techniques applied to selected problems.

Applications address fins, heat exchangers, and interactive computing. Final exam. Prereq: Mech

Engr 312. Coreq: Mech Engr 341 and Math 342 or Math 346. Sem hrs: 3 spring of even-numbered years.

Mech Engr 445. Failure Analysis and Prevention. Failure analysis and prevention is a technical discipline that integrates mechanical engineering, materials engineering, and structural analysis into component analysis and design. Laboratory techniques including scanning electron microscopy, metallography, non-destructive inspection, and mechanical testing will be used to determine the causes of failures of mechanical components. Re-designs may include changes in geometry, materials selection, or operation to preclude failure. Final exam or final project.

Prereq: Mech Engr 350 and Mech Engr 340 (recommended). Sem hrs: 3 spring of even-numbered years.

Mech Engr 450. Aerospace Composite Materials. Introduction to select advanced aerospace materials. Topics covered include: mechanical behavior, design and analysis, processing, testing, inspection and repair of resin-matrix composite materials, and processing and application of metal matrix and ceramic-matrix composites. Topics emphasized through hands-on project in design, fabrication, and testing of a composite structure. Final exam or final project. Field trip.

Prereq: Mech Engr 330 and Math 245. Sem hrs: 3 spring.

Mech Engr 460. Experimental Mechanics. Introduction to experimental measurements and their role in the mechanical design process. Includes theory and application of static and dynamic instrumentation to include: strain, vibration, temperature, and pressure transducers. Hands-on laboratory experience constitutes one-half of the course. Laboratory sessions involve analysis, design, test plans, calibration, and testing. Final exam or final report. Lab. Prereq: ECE 315, Mech Engr 320, Mech Engr 330, Math 300 or Math 356. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 468. Sustainable Energy. Current and potential future energy systems are covered including resources, extraction, conversion, and application with sustainability as a major consideration. Different renewable technologies will be considered as possible replacements for more conventional energy technologies. Final project or final exam. Prereq: Mech Engr 312.

Coreq: Mech Engr 341, or department approval. Sem hrs: 3 spring of odd-numbered years.

Mech Engr 490. Automotive Systems Analysis for the Engineer. 3(1). An analysis of the modern automobile as an engineering system. Engineering concepts applied to the design, maintenance, and integration of automotive subsystems. Analysis of power plants, clutches, transmissions, drive trains, suspension systems, steering and braking dynamics, and overall vehicle performance including economy. Final report or final exam. Field trip. Coreq: Mech Engr 320 or department approval. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 491. Capstone Design Project I. Capstone engineering design experience for the Mechanical Engineering Major. Emphasis placed on the design process, complete analysis, and technical communication in the creative development of a mechanical system. The system is designed, fabricated, and tested against performance specifications determined by faculty members. Final report. Prereq (required for all): C1C standing and team advisor approval. Prereq (required for Mech Engr Majors): Mech Engr 320, Mech Engr 330, Mech Engr 312, Mech Engr

341. Coreq (required for Mech Engr majors): Mech Engr 460. Non-Mech Engr majors are welcome on a case-by-case basis. Waiver authority is the DFEM Deputy for Curriculum. Sys Engr majors do not require waivers but must have capstone design team advisor approval. Sem hrs: 3 fall.

Mech Engr 492. Capstone Design Project II. Capstone engineering design experience for the Mechanical Engineering Major. Emphasis placed on the design process, complete analysis, and technical communication in the creative development of a mechanical system. The system is designed, fabricated, and tested against performance specifications determined by faculty members. Final report. Prereq (required for all): C1C standing and team advisor approval. Prereq (required for Mech Engr Majors): Mech Engr 320, Mech Engr 330, Mech Engr 312, Mech Engr 341, Mech Engr 460. Non-Mech Engr majors are welcome on a case-by-case basis. Waiver authority is the DFEM Deputy for Curriculum. Sys Engr majors do not require waivers but must have capstone design team advisor approval. Sem hrs: 3 spring.

Mech Engr 495. Special Topics. Selected topics related to mechanical engineering. Prereq:

department approval. Sem hrs: 3 fall or spring

Mech Engr 499. Independent Study. Individual study, research, or design on a topic established with the approval of the Department Head. If the cadet performs exceptionally well (as determined by the Research Mentor and Department Head), Mech Engr 499 credit can be awarded for a successful Cadet Summer Research Program also meeting the Mech Engr Option II requirement of the Mechanical Engineering program. Prereq: Departmental approval of USAFA Form 0-498 prior to enrollment. Final report. Sem hrs: 3 fall or spring.

• Mech Engr 499A. Independent Study. 2(0). Sem hrs: 2 fall or spring.

• Mech Engr 499B. Independent Study. 1.5(0). Sem hrs: 1.5 fall or spring.

• Mech Engr 499C. Independent Study. 1(0). Sem hrs: 1 fall or spring.