Mech/Elec/Renewble Energy Engr

Academic Programs

Courses

ENGR 113: Explorations in Renewable Energy Engineering

Credits 1
An Engineering Exploration course focusing on renewable energy. This hands-on laboratory course includes solar; wind; fuel cell and sustainable design. First-year engineering students enroll in two different Engineering Exploration courses.

MECH 438: Alternative Vehicle Energy Control and Powertrain Design

Credits 3
In this course we explore the design fundamentals of alternative energy vehicles including electric and hybrid vehicles. Topics covered include power electronics; power systems; drivetrain; component modeling; battery systems; supervisory control and fault diagnosis. We rely heavily on model-based design including Simulink; with an emphasis on electric and hybrid vehicles.

MECH 486: Modeling and Simulation of Dynamic Systems

Credits 3
Mathematical modeling of physical systems and simulation of linear system responses. System response to varied inputs are studied using classical techniques. Laplace transforms and modeling and simulation software.

RNEW 255: Power System Operation and Economics

Credits 3
This course covers power system operation; generation scheduling; and trading. The idea is to minimize the total operation cost of a power system subject to power balance and other constraints. Different minimization methods are covered and the coordination between thermal and renewable generation are discussed.

RNEW 310: Fuel Cell Principles and Technology

Credits 3
This course is designed for advanced undergraduate students to gain the basic science and engineering concepts behind fuel cell technology. It emphasizes the functional scientific principles and practical application. Prerequisite: junior standing.

RNEW 355: Power System Operation and Economics

Credits 3
This course covers power system operation; generation scheduling; and trading. The idea is to minimize the total operation cost of a power system subject to power balance and other constraints. Topics such as power system control; reliability; and distribution system are covered.

RNEW 410: Advanced Power Systems

Credits 3
This course covers steady and transient-state analysis and controls of power systems. Steady-state analysis such as power flows; optimal power flows; and unit commitment will be discussed. Transient-state analysis such as symmetrical/unsymmetrical faults; transient stability will be discussed.

RNEW 461: Power Electronics for Renewable Systems

Credits 3
This course is an introduction to power electronics with emphasis on applications such as energy conservation and renewable energy. Topics include introductory switching devices; devices for power electronics; and converter design and simulation. Basic concepts of DC-DC converters in continuous and discontinuous modes are included; along with design for motor drives and transformer-isolated switch-mode power supplies.