BME 595 ST. MEDICAL DEVICE DESIGN CONTROLS
An introduction to the fundamentals of medical device design controls from concept generation to manufacturing. Students work in teams to navigate through the medical device design and development lifecycle on various device types, fulfilling design control requirements while learning what is required to bring a concept to life in industry.
BB 570 ST. ADVANCED TOPICS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY (3 credits)
This course covers selected topics and trends in science and technology that drive innovative approaches in healthcare as they relate to the development of therapies for different types of diseases. Current state of biotechnology in the US and worldwide, overview of the biotechnology industry from the bench to the bedside, from start-ups to global operations, drug development stages, biologics and small molecules, gene and cell-based therapies, diagnostics, regulations, and outsourcing models will be discussed. The overall goal of the course is to provide the students with a solid understanding of the processes, trends, cutting- edge technologies, as well as ethical issues around animal use and healthcare decisions in biopharmaceutical industry. Using individual, group, and whole class learning strategies, the course includes planned activities, while also providing students a forum to raise and address their own questions and learning issues that arise from lecture and outside assignments. Students are given the opportunity to work cooperatively as a team, and develop critical thinking skills, while applying scientific concepts to unique problems.
BB 570 ST. GENETIC ENGINEERING AND SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY (3 credits)*
In this hybrid lecture and laboratory course students will learn the theory and practice of genetic engineering, particularly applications to advancing discovery in the biotechnology industry. The course will cover transfer of genetic material to host organisms and modification of the hosts themselves to achieve targeted metabolic and cellular outcomes. Topics include the practical assembly of genes, gene circuits, and genomes - from classical methods like PCR and restriction enzyme cloning to modern methods like CRISPR- Cas9 editing and DNA synthesis. Lectures may also cover associated topics like recombination, primer design, combinatorial and mutagenic library assembly, and the utilities of various established and novel host cell systems. In the laboratory, students will employ individualized design strategies to affect a genetic modification using techniques like CRISPR that will yield a specified biochemical outcome.
BB 570 ST. MEDICAL AND APPLIED IMMUNOLOGY (3 credits)*
This course introduces students to the basic concepts of immunology and emphasizes the molecular and cellular interactions involved in immune responses. Topics covered include innate immunity, antibody structure and function; applications of monoclonal antibodies in biotechnology and medicine; gene rearrangements in T and B cells; cellular cooperation and the role of MHC; tolerance; and immunopathology (hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, transplantation, AIDS, cancer immunity and immunotherapy). Using individual, group, and whole class learning strategies, the course includes planned activities, while also providing students a forum to raise and address their own questions and learning issues that arise from lecture and outside assignments. Students are given the opportunity to work cooperatively as a team, and develop critical thinking skills, while applying scientific concepts to unique problems. Prerequisites: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology
BB 570 ST. PRINCIPLES OF SCALE TRANSITIONING IN BIOPROCESSING
Strategies for optimization of bioprocesses for scale-up applications will be explored. In addition to the theory of scaling up unit operations in bioprocessing, students will scale up a bench-scale bioprocess (5 liters), including fermentation and downstream processing to 55 liters. Specific topics include the effects of scaling up on mass transfer and bioreactor design, harvesting techniques including tangential flow filtration and centrifugation and chromatography. (Pre-req: BB 560. Protein Purification and BB 570 ST. Animal Cell Culture or BB 505. Fermentation Biology)
BB 570 ST. THEORY OF GENETIC ENGINEERING & SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY
Students will learn the theory of genetic engineering and explore its potential applications for advancing discovery in the biotechnology industry. The course will cover transfer of genetic material to host organisms and modification of the hosts themselves to achieve targeted metabolic and cellular outcomes. Topics include the practical assembly of genes, gene circuits, and genomes - from classical methods like PCR and restriction enzyme cloning to modern methods like CRISPR- Cas9 editing and DNA synthesis. Lectures may also cover associated topics like recombination, primer design, combinatorial and mutagenic library assembly, and the utilities of various established and novel host cell systems.
BBT 570 PRACTICAL PROCESS CONTROL
The course provides instruction on statistical topics and tools focused on the manufacturing environment. This course is not intended to be an in depth or broadly general statistics course. The focus will be on process control within an industrial manufacturing environment. Discussions will include identifying data relevant to ensuring process control. Students will apply specific statistical tools to evaluate data generated from a typical manufacturing process. Students will design a qualification for a manufacturing system.
CH 520. ST. CELL SIGNALING & PHYSIOLOGY (3 credits)
Cell signaling defines the way cells respond to changes in their environment including, heat, nutrients, drugs, hormones, and other factors. These external factors allow cells to grow, divide, migrate and proliferate depending on the stimulus, and inappropriate responses lead to cancer and other diseases. This course is directed for advanced undergraduates and graduate level course that is a combination of online lectures, discussions, and review of recent literature.
CH 555D./BB 555 ST. DRUG REGULATIONS
This course provides an overview of regulations that guide the drug industry. Primary focus is on the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and its associated regulations, in particular the Good Manufacturing Practices. The course covers the FD&C Act, including definitions, prohibited acts, penalties and general authority. Focus of the course will be regulations, registration and approval of drugs manufactured by traditional pharmaceutical methods as well as novel biotechnological processes.
CH 555 ST. CURRENT TRENDS IN BIOLOGICS
This course addresses current topics in the Discovery, Development and Regulation of Biologics-defined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as medicines that generally come from living organisms, including humans, animals and such microorganisms as yeast and bacteria. Unlike conventional chemically synthesized drugs, that are easily identified and characterized, biologics are variable in nature, more structurally complex and more difficult to define and characterize. Consequently, development of biologics as therapeutic agents, can be far more challenging. Moreover, the development of generic versions known as “biosimilars” pose even greater issues over their drug counterparts. While generic drugs are approved on the basis of chemical and bioequivalence, biosimilars require a different less well-defined standard of “sameness.” This course seeks to unravel the complexities surrounding biologics and biosimilars and keep pace with the ever changing scientific and legislative landscape. Prerequisite Courses: This course provide a logical extension of material covered in CH555 Special Topics “Drug Regulations.”
CH 555 ST. DRUG SAFETY AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE (3 credits)
This course will outline the mission, jurisdiction and enforcement powers of the FDA, and define the legal classifications for pharmaceutical and medical device products. The course covers the reporting requirements for reporting adverse events/errors for both pharmaceuticals and medical devices, appropriate company responses to adverse events, and the essential elements of pharmacovigilance and GMP.
CH 555 ST. MEMBRANE PROTEIN-TARGETED DRUG DESIGN
This course will focus on molecular components which comprise cellular membranes, proteins which are both embedded and peripheral to these membranes as well as the mechanism by which ions and small molecules are transported across these membranes. Students within this class will use this information to learn and investigate how small molecule inhibitors and activators of membrane proteins can be discovered. (Prerequisite: A good understanding of protein structure and function.)
CH 555 ST. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF MOLECULAR MODELING
This molecular modeling class is radically different from many other computational courses. It requires very little math/physical background. Instead, the focus is on applying molecular modeling methods. Most of the applications are to proteins and related systems. The students will learn some basic information about the modeling techniques, but most of the time is spent in working with modeling software. The software is largely run via websites or with standalone programs with very user-friendly interfaces. The techniques include constructing molecules, running geometry optimization and molecular dynamics, homology modeling, and protein pKa calculations.
CH 555. ST. DNA TRANSACTIONS AND PROTEIN SYNTHESIS
DNA encodes our genetic information and is passed through generations to maintain life. Emanating from DNA is RNA and proteins. Each of these biomolecules are essential. This course will provide molecular and atomistic level details of these three biomolecules, how they are made and the mechanisms that maintain fidelity of these molecules. In addition, this course will integrate new methodologies that can be used to address today’s critical issues in medicine, biotechnology and engineering. Together, this course will enable students to apply their newfound knowledge in DNA, RNA and protein synthesis to solve problems that are faced in society today.
CHE 580 MOLECULAR DESIGN AND ENGINEERING
This course will cover interactions of molecules (principally, ionic interactions, polarity interactions, hydrogen bonding, and charge transfer interactions) within the context of molecular structure. Based on this general treatment, we will learn about a handful of empirical methods that can be useful for estimating physical properties such as vapor pressure, solvent-solvent partitioning, etc. In parallel, the course will cover some of the spectroscopic and chromatographic methods used to measure and understand intermolecular interactions. Following treatment of molecular systems, we will begin to delve into macromolecular systems (e.g., polymers) and then super-molecular systems (nanotechnology, colloids, etc.). Our focus will be on organic molecules, as these provide many opportunities to explore interesting behavior.
BUS 598. SPECIAL TOPICS: ENERGY MANAGEMENT
This course covers a broad spectrum of energy management topics important to future business managers and leaders including: energy management strategies for business, governmental regulations, incentives and resources, European Union energy policies and programs including carbon credits and related markets. We will study energy efficiency practices as they relate to ISO 50001 Energy Management Systems, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED), high performance buildings, data centers, renewable energy sources and smart grid. Special focus will be on energy management for financial and environmental sustainability benefits from the perspective of CEOs, CFOs, COOs and CSOs.
OIE 598F. FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF MANUFACTURING METHODS
This course examines the impact that initial product design choices and their methods of manufacture have on the long term cost of production. The course teaches how to identify cost drivers, understand inflation and changes in material cost that affect long term production economics. It will describe the impact of late design changes on product costing, and how this can be improved. The student will analyze how design and process alternatives affect unit cost based on product life volume. Break-even calculations that include tooling and investment in capital equipment and technology will also be covered.
CS 525S ST. COMPUTER AND NETWORK SECURITY
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of computer and network security. Security architectures and protocols and their impact on computers and networks are examined. Critical computer and network security aspects are identified and examined from the standpoints of both the user and the attacker. Computer system and network vulnerabilities are examined, and mitigating approaches are identified and evaluated. Both the principles and practice of computer and network security are introduced. The basic issues to be addressed by a computer and network security capability are explored. The practice of computer and network security: practical applications that have been implemented and are in use to provide security are surveyed. Prerequisites: Working knowledge of computers, and basic computer networks.
CS 525#. ST: DIGITAL FORENSICS
An introduction to the principles, practices, and tools of digital forensics, with an emphasis on data related to computer security. Topics include collecting, preserving, analyzing, and presenting digital evidence from multiple data sources (such as databases, operating systems, networks, and application software). An overview of legal considerations affecting data forensics is also covered. Assignments will involve a combination of reading, writing, and using forensics tools on system data. Prerequisites: Undergraduate preparation in Computer Science, including networks, operating systems, and databases.
CE590N. NEGOTIATION AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN CONSTRUCTION
The major objectives of the course are to learn basic negotiation skills; develop ability, using these skills, to mediate and resolve conflict over land use, development policy and critical decisions about design and construction; and explore the design and construction process as a medium through which to reconcile conflict. This course introduces students to the practice of negotiation and mediation in the context of design and construction. Learning from general theories of negotiation and conflict resolution, students will consider the role of Construction Managers as mediators and consensus-builders who must reconcile conflicting visions about how a specific project should be designed and developed. The course examines a variety of contexts and problems that create a need for negotiation, and raise questions about what it means to negotiate well. It examines how negotiators manage their interactions and ask, "Why do we get one deal rather than another?" The course reviews how negotiators create opportunities for mutual gains, how they construct relationships in which trust is possible, and to how they build sympathy in their interactions. The course also examines the ways in which expanding issues, adding parties, negotiating at multiple levels, and acting in a community context influence negotiation practice. It concludes by understanding how a third neutral party (mediator) could help in managing and solving conflicts
CE 590. COMPUTER BASED SIMULATION FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF CONSTRUCTION FIRMS
This course provides students with theory and principles for the management of the construction firm. It uses a computer based simulation approach to assist the students in developing their managerial skills and in evaluating potential costs and benefits derived from different business and organizational strategies. The computer simulates the operation and business activities of a hypothetical construction firm located in Massachusetts for a period of two years. The simulation software recognizes the vital interplay that takes place between strategic and operational decisions and the human side of business. It incorporates elements of the firm’s decision-making such as the design of the reporting structure, job descriptions and recruitment as well as personnel behavioral issues.
CE 590. CAPITAL FACILITY PLANNING AND FINANCING OF PUBLIC & PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
This course investigates the planning and financing of capital investment facilities with emphasis on civil infrastructure systems. Several cases studies will be reviewed with an emphasis on the evaluation of project feasibility and evaluation of project performance. A review of project delivery systems is used to promote best value, innovation and private sector participation. Fundamentals of engineering economics and principles of project finance are explored and used during the evaluation of various types of civil infrastructure projects. Case studies will include infrastructure projects related to transportation, water supply, wastewater treatment and energy production.
ECE 559#. ELECTRIC DRIVES
Electric drive systems are used to control electric motors. They are used in power generation, household appliances, automotive and industrial applications. The rapidly expanding area of adjustable speed drives as used in robotics, wind turbines and hybrid vehicles is driven by innovations in machine design, power semi-conductors, digital signal processors and simulation software.
This course will include the theory underlying electric drives including: phasors and three-phase circuits, concept of real and reactive power; magnetic circuits for electric machines; mechanical systems requirements for electric drives; switch mode converters and pulse width modulation in DC and AC motor drives; force generation and Electro-Motive Force (EMF) for electromechanical energy conversion. Permanent Magnet AC machines; stepper motors and switch reluctance motor drives; energy efficient speed control of induction motor drives and space vectors for AC machine operation will also be taught. The analysis and design of motor drives to meet torque, speed and position controller requirements; DC motor drive four quadrant operation and power quality issues will be included. Other topics include: induction machine equations in phase and space vectors quantities, description of vector control with design of PI controllers. Throughout this course, examples will be used to demonstrate the practical application of these theories. Prerequisites are: ECE 5512 Electromechanical Energy Conversion; and ECE 523 Power Electronics.
ECE 519E. SPECIAL TOPICS: ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY
The goal of this course is to provide electronic systems designers with a working knowledge of practical and mathematically sound principles that govern electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in real electronic systems. The class begins with the noise coupling model, using applied electromagnetic theory and lumped element models to describe the four noise coupling paths. Special emphasis is included on the definition and application of self and mutual inductance and grounding concepts. Common-mode current and voltage will be discussed in the context of specific system-level regulatory electromagnetic interference (EMI) tests for radiated and conducted emissions and susceptibility (immunity). Students will also study shielding applications for signal cables and system enclosures at low and high frequencies, including shield termination techniques. Class material will also include discussions of the qualitative and quantitative aspects of specific tests proscribed by the US military EMI test standard MIL-STD-461.
ECE 529C. NOISE IN ANALOG AND MIXED SIGNAL CIRCUITS AND SYSTEMS
This course covers the application of probabilistic techniques to the analysis of noise in analog and mixed signal circuits and systems, as well as the design of systems to meet required noise performance. The course begins with a review of basic and advanced probability concepts: probability, random variables, stochastic processes, power spectral density, and autocorrelation. This is followed by a description of fundamental noise mechanisms (e.g. thermal noise, shot noise) and noise models at the device level for the MOSFET and bipolar transistors. Modeling of noise at the amplifier and system level, as well as noise simulation in SPICE, is also covered. These noise analysis techniques are then applied to the design of low noise amplifiers, for both discrete and integrated circuit applications. Also addressed are interference mechanisms that affect measured noise performance, including crosstalk, power supply induced noise, and ground loops. The course concludes with optional advanced topics, possibly including 1/f noise, phase noise and jitter in oscillators, and phase-locked loops (PLL) systems. (Prerequisite: Undergraduate courses in probability, signals and systems, analog microelectronics. ECE 502 helpful but not essential.)
ECE 579 ST. EMBEDDED SYSTEMS DESIGN
This course will provide student the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in design and validation of embedded systems, with a focus on embedded C programming and real-time operating systems for ARM® Cortex™-M microcontrollers. On the hardware side, this course reviews and expands upon all the major components of anembedded microprocessor system, including the CPU, buses, memory devices and peripheral interfaces. The software portion of this course focuses on solving real-world problems that require an embedded system to meet strict real-time constraints with limited resources. This course will also explore the frontier of embedded systems, including cyber-physical systems, internet of things, artificial intelligence and robotics.
CE 590. GEOENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING: MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE (MSW) MANAGEMENT
This course will focus on characterization of municipal solid waste (MSW), various MSW management options, geotechnical aspects in the analysis, design and construction of new waste containment facilities (landfills), emerging waste management technologies, and end use of closed landfills. Disposal of waste generated by people and industrial processes is an important issue in our society. We will explore both technical and practical issues related to the design of landfills and other MSW management options. We will rely primarily on lectures to develop your understanding of these issues. After successfully finishing this course, you should have a solid understanding of the geotechnical issues involved in landfill design and be well on your way to becoming an expert if so desired. The course is designed so that a substantial background in geotechnical engineering is not required; when necessary, we will review some basic principles of geotechnical engineering. Environmental engineers, geologists, soil scientists, and others with engineering, geosciences or scientific backgrounds are welcome.
CE 590. GREEN ENGINEERING
In recent decades manufacturing has favored the design of products with little consideration of raw material sourcing or end of life disposal. This has led to social, economic and environmental issues around the sourcing of materials, material use, hazardous emissions, material toxicity, and product end of life. This course introduces students to the wide variety of environmental issues and impacts associated with manufactured products in an industrial facility. We will explore the impacts that engineering design decisions have on the environment and how smarter, more sustainable decisions have the potential to improve a business’s environmental stewardship, financial prosperity, and social well-being. This is a project-based course where students will work independently or in groups to design a simple toy or tool while assessing and reducing the environmental impacts associated with the toy or tool.
CE590 S. GROUND SOURCE GEOTHERMAL AND GROUND ENERGY STORAGE (GES) PRINCIPLES AND APPLICATIONS
This course is designed to immerse students in geothermal and ground energy storage engineering. Students will cover fundamental principles and design processes using detailed examples. Consistent with WPI’s focus on using engineering and technology to address real-world problems, this course will also provide students background on policies and trends which are fostering growth and interest in geothermal and other sustainability measures including: economic drivers, stretch codes, greenhouse gas reduction policy, net zero building design, and renewable energy credits. Students of all engineering, technology backgrounds are welcome including: civil, environmental, mechanical, architecture, and construction management. Students with interest in sustainability policy and trends are also welcome.
FP 580 SP. BUSINESS PRACTICE
This course requires the student to demonstrate the capability to integrate advanced fire safety engineering analysis and design concepts into a professional business practice environment. The practicum requires the student to develop an understanding of the financial considerations and business aspects associated with the profession of fire protection engineering. Students will need to prepare professional quality business plans, project budgets, financial proposals, project budgets, timelines and technical reports. Oral presentations to communicate the results of work will also be required.
FP 580/ME 593/AE 593 SP. COMBUSTION
This class is intended to provide an engineer with the basic understanding of various combustion phenomena. It will begin by covering fundamental governing equations for reacting flow, chemical kinetics, and mechanisms of hydrocarbon oxidation. The theory of deflagrations and detonations will be studied. The course will touch briefly on themes of combustion diagnostics, environmental issues, and power generation. Emphasis will also be given on the recent research interest on micro-scale combustion applications. The primary goal of the class is to provide students with tools and understanding to solve the basic problems in combustion and to enable them to read and understand the literature in this broad field of study.
FP 580 SP. FORENSIC TECHNIQUES
This class focuses on the concept of selecting, applying, and assessing forensic techniques for fire and explosion analysis. Application of the techniques will involve understanding the theoretical basis for the technique, its limitations and associated uncertainty. The general concept of forensic techniques to derive reliable data will be developed with specific applications. The class will generally take up one topic per week, although at least one topic covers two weeks. Some videos will be used to see forensic techniques in action in the laboratory and in the field. Sample forensic techniques for the class may include: X-rays, SEM/EDS, FTIR, optical microscopy, water flow tests, etc. Students will be evaluated primarily through online assessments using quizzes and forum posts within WPI course system, Blackboard. The fourteen week (standard semester) class will include four additional case study weeks on related topics. There are no pre-requisites for the Forensic Techniques Course.
FP 580 SP. COMPLEX DECISION MAKING
One of the biggest ways that you can influence the quality of your life is by improving the quality of your decisions. Complex Decision Making is intended for professionals in management positions and/ or those individuals, regardless of industry, who seek to enhance both their career potential and their overall quality of life. Based on logical principles, and informed by what we know about the limitations of human judgment and decision-making in complex situations, the course trains managers how to think about and structure decisions. These decisions incorporate both their everyday decisions as well as the tough, complex decisions that involve uncertainty, risk, several possible perspectives, and multiple competing objectives, thus improving the quality of the resulting decisions. In addition to teaching formal decision theory and application, we will explore cognitive biases that prevent us from being completely rational in our thinking and deciding. Exit this course able to define the right decision problem, clearly specify your objectives, create imaginative alternatives, understand consequences, grapple with trade-offs, clarify uncertainties, and think hard about your individual values and risk tolerance.
FP 580 SP. FIRE PROTECTION FOR NUCLEAR FACILITIES
In nuclear facilities, fire is often a dominant cause of risk to the public and to workers. A fire at a facility containing substantial quantities of radioactive materials can, if uncontrolled, cause extensive property damage and expose both workers and the public to unacceptable levels of radiation. The goal of this course is to give the student an understanding of these unique hazards and the methods by which they can be controlled.
ME 593/MTE 594. SOLAR CELLS
The objective of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the working principles, design, fabrication and characterization of established and emerging solar cell technologies. Students will learn about the electronic properties of semiconductor materials, which are the building blocks of solar cells, and analyze the photo generation and extraction of charges in these materials. The course will emphasize the influence of the atomic-, nano- and micro-scale structure of the materials on the solar cell performance. In addition, the challenges of economics and scalability that must be addressed to increase the deployment of solar cells will be discussed.
Recommended Background: This is an introductory graduate-level course. An undergraduate major in any of the engineering or physical science disciplines is expected.
ME 593. SPECIAL TOPICS: FIBER OPTICS
This course is designed to introduce students to the field of fiber optics, with an emphasis of fiber optic sensors for mechanical measurements. It covers basic knowledge and working principles of optical fibers and fiber optic components, as well as practical design guidelines and applications of fiber optic sensing systems. The first half of the course will introduce different components of fiber optics, including working principles of optical fibers, single-mode and multimode fibers, properties of optical fibers, passive fiber optic devices, light sources and detectors. The second half of the course will focus on the fiber optic sensing systems, including working principles of fiber optic sensors, intensity-based and interferometer-based fiber optic sensors, fiber Bragg gratings, and low-coherence fiber optic interferometers. Specifically, design of fiber optic sensors for strain and pressure measurements will be discussed. Moreover, measurement characteristics and signal processing of fiber optic sensing systems for different applications will be introduced.
ME 593/AE 593/FP 580 ST. COMBUSTION
This class is intended to provide an engineer with the basic understanding of various combustion phenomena. It will begin by covering fundamental governing equations for reacting flow, chemical kinetics, and mechanisms of hydrocarbon oxidation. The theory of deflagrations and detonations will be studied. The course will touch briefly on themes of combustion diagnostics, environmental issues, and power generation. Emphasis will also be given on the recent research interest on micro-scale combustion applications. The primary goal of the class is to provide students with tools and understanding to solve the basic problems in combustion and to enable them to read and understand the literature in this broad field of study.
ME 593/MTE 594 ST. BIOMATERIALS
This course is intended to serve as a general introduction to various aspects pertaining to the application of synthetic and natural materials in medicine and healthcare. This course will provide the student with a general understanding of the properties of a wide range of materials used in clinical practice. The physical and mechanical property requirements for the long term efficacy of biomaterials in the augmentation, repair, replacement or regeneration of tissues will be described. The physico-chemical interactions between the biomaterial and the physiological environment will be highlighted. The course will provide a general understanding of the application of a combination of synthetic and biological moieties to elicit a specific physiological response. Examples of the use of biomaterials in drug delivery, orthopedic, dental, cardiovascular, ocular, wound closure and tissue engineering applications will be outlined. In general,this course will:
ME 593. SPECIAL TOPICS: DESIGN AND OPTIMIZATION OF THERMAL SYSTEMS
This course introduces students to design of small and large scale optimum thermal systems. The hardware associated with thermal systems includes fans, pumps, compressors, engines, expanders, turbines, heat and mass exchangers, and reactors, all interconnected with some form of conduits. Generally, the working substances are fluids. These types of systems appear in such industries as power generation, electric and gas utilities, refrigeration and cryogenics, air conditioning and heating, and in the food, chemical, petroleum, and other process industries
MFE 520 / MTE 520 / ME 520 ST. AXIOMATIC DESIGN OF MANUFACTURING PROCESSES
This online only, seven week, two credit course includes an in-depth study of axiomatic design, the theory and practice. Applications are considered primarily, although not exclusively, for the design of manufacturing processes and tools. Axiomatic design is based on the premise that there are common aspects to all good designs. These commons aspects, stated in the independence and information axioms, facilitate the teaching and practice of engineering design as a scientific discipline. Analysis of processes and products is considered from the perspective of supporting product and process design. Fundamental methods of engineering analysis of manufacturing processes with broad applicability are developed. Special attention is given to examples in machining (traditional, nontraditional and grinding), additive manufacturing, and to the production of surfaces. The ability to generalize is emphasized to facilitate development of analyses and design methods with broader applicability. The content is delivered in video lectures and in readings from the technical literature. The grade is from performance on homework and quizzes given and delivered on-line and on a design project on manufacturing processes. The project will be developed in a series of assignments which will be reviewed and commented on individually. Project topics can be from work or dissertations on many kinds of systems and services, in addition to traditional manufacturing processes and tools. Credit cannot be given for this course and any of the similar, in-class versions for 3 credits, MFE 520, MTE 520 and ME 543.
MTE 594 ST. BIOPOLYMERS
Natural and synthetic polymers are used extensively in medical devices. The purpose of this research oriented course is to describe the physical and mechanical characteristics of these polymers. A general understanding of the use of these polymers in the augmentation, repair, replacement or regeneration of tissues will be provided. The physico-chemical interactions of the polymers in a physiological environment will be highlighted. Topics to be covered include resorbable polymers, hydrogels, dendrimers, IPN’s and smart polymers. Examples of the use of biopolymers in drug delivery, orthopedic, dental, cardiovascular, ocular, wound closure and tissue engineering applications will be outlined. Prerequisites: a) basic knowledge of materials science and mechanics at the graduate level b) undergraduate/graduate class in polymers that has provided a basic familiarity with the terminologies in macromolecules c) some experience with research methodologies, as this will be a research oriented class.
MTE 594 ST. PRINCIPLES OF METALLURGY
This course provides a foundation in material engineering for the subsequent three manufacturing process courses. The course will explore the classic interplay among structure-processing-properties-performance in materials, primarily in metals and some coverage of ceramics. The structure of materials ranging from the subatomic to the macroscopic, including nano-, micro- and macromolecular structures will be discussed to highlight bonding mechanisms, crystallinity, and defect patterns. Representative thermodynamic and kinetic aspects such as diffusion, phase diagrams, nucleation and growth, and TTT diagrams will be discussed along with dislocation theory. Strengthening mechanisms including solid solution strengthening and precipitation hardening, and grain boundary engineering will be emphasized. The relationship between alloy composition, microstructure, and property of commonly utilized engineering materials including steels, aluminum, magnesium, titanium, nickel, cobalt, refractory alloys and selected ceramics will be described in detail to illustrate the basic principles.
MTE 594L ST. MANUFACTURING PROCESSES I: HEAT TREATING, FORGING/FORMING AND POWDER PROCESSING
This course will begin by focusing on the fundamentals of the heat treating process with examples from the steel, aluminum, titanium, and nickel alloy systems. The importance of heat treating to the mechanical properties of alloys will be emphasized. Modeling methods for heat treating processes will be presented and discussed. Metal forming methods including sheet forming, forging, and extrusion will be presented and discussed and the alloy’s response to these processes will be emphasized. Finally, powder processing methods will be explored, including processes and techniques for manufacturing powder, forming shapes, sintering, and finishing.
MTE 594M ST. MANUFACTURING PROCESSES II: CASTING, JOINING, AND DIRECT DIGITAL MANUFACTURING
This course provides the fundamentals of casting, joining and direct digital manufacturing processes applicable to UTC products, including process description sub-process steps, key process inputs, key process outputs, effect of process variables on material properties, and modeling of process. A review of casting processes sand, permanent mold, and investments will be provided. Directional solidification and single crystal growth will be explored. Modeling casting processes will be developed. The metallurgy of joining and direct digital manufacturing will be covered, including processes, such as fusion welding (GTAW, PAW, GMAW), high energy beam welding (laser, electron beam), solid state joining (friction, inertia bonding, friction stir welding, diffusion bonding), brazing, resistance welding, etc.
MFE 594N ST. MANUFACTURING PROCESSES III: COATING AND SURFACE TREATMENTS
This 3 credit, graduate-level course provides the fundamentals of coating and surface treatment methods applicable to UTC products, including process description, sub-process steps, key process inputs, key process outputs, effect of process variables on material properties, and modeling of process. Coating technologies, including plasma thermal spray, PVD, CVD, ion implantation, cold spray, with focus on coatings of interest to UTC will be presented. Flame and plasma spray coatings will be included. Gas phase absorption and reaction processes, including carburizing, nitriding, aluminizing, chromizing, and boronizing, with focus on microstructural development will be covered. Process Modeling will be introduced. The topic of surface treatment used to enhance material property and manage residual stresses such as peening, laser shot peening, low plasticity burnishing and case hardening of steels will also be covered. (Prerequisite MTE 594[x] Principles of Metallurgy),
MTE 594Y ST. MECHANICAL BEHAVIOUR IN METALLIC ALLOYS
The purpose of this class is to provide a basic knowledge of the principles pertaining to the properties of materials. The basic aspects of elastic and plastic deformation in metallic alloys will be highlighted. Various yield criteria in ductile metals will be presented. The metallurgical fundamentals of dislocation theory and strengthening mechanisms will be discussed. Basic concepts of fracture mechanics including Griffiths and Irwing’s theories will be described. The effects of notches and notch sensitivity of various metallic alloys will be discussed. An overview of dynamic properties such as fatigue, impact and creep will be provided. The relationship between the structural parameters and the preceding mechanical properties will be described. Recent developments in the use of nanotechnology for improving mechanical properties of metallic alloys will be summarized. Various testing methodologies for estimating tensile, compressive, flexural, fracture toughness, impact toughness, fatigue and creep properties will be described. The importance of ductile to brittle transition in some metals will be emphasized. Property reinforcement through the use particles and fibers and basic composite theories will be discussed. Prerequisites: MTE 594 Structure, processing and properties of metallic alloys or MTE 594 Principles of Metallurgy.
ME 593/MFE 594/MTE 594 ST. FUNDAMENTALS OF SURFACE METROLOGY
Fundamental principles of surface metrology, the measurement, analysis and characterization of surface topographies, including roughness, are introduced. Surface metrology is important in a wide variety of situations including adhesion, friction, fracture, flow, catalysis, corrosion, cleanability, heat transfer, mass transfer, scattering, biological growth, wear, and wetting. These situations impact practically all the engineering disciplines and sciences from scales of nanometers to kilometers. Conventional profile measurements and analyses are reviewed. Areal measurements and advanced, multi-scale geometric characterizations are emphasized. Measurement and filtering methods are critically reviewed. Students learn advanced scale-based methods for surface discrimination and for discovering correlations with processing and performance. The design, tolerancing and manufacture of surface textures, are covered along with issues in quality assurance. Examples of research from a broad range of fields are presented, including: food science, transportation, tribology, manufacturing, as well as physical anthropology and archaeology. Students do a major project of their choosing, which can involve either an in-depth literature review, or surface measurement and analysis. The facilities of WPI’s Surface Metrology Laboratory are available for making measurements for selected projects. Software for basic and advanced analysis methods is also available for use in the course. No previous knowledge of surface metrology is required. Students should have some background in engineering, math or science. The content is similar to ME 5370, MTE 5841 and MFE 5841. Credit cannot be given for both. The content is delivered through knowledge apps (i.e., video books, www.retrieve.com) and readings from the scientific and technical literature.