Mechanical Engineering (ME)

ME 1V9R  Research in Mechanical Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): Consent of instructor  
Undergraduate research supervised by a faculty member. May be taken for a maximum of 6 hours.
ME 2320  Statics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in MTH 1321; a grade of B or better or concurrent enrollment in EGR 1302; a grade of C or better or concurrent enrollment in PHY 1420  
Study of forces, moments, free-body diagrams, friction, equilibrium, first and second moments of lines, centers of pressure, mass and gravity, and moments of inertia.
ME 2321  Dynamics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2320, PHY 1420 and MTH 1322; A grade of B or better in EGR 1302  
Kinematics and kinetics of particles and rigid bodies including Newton's Second Law, work-energy methods, impulse-momentum, and central and oblique impact.
ME 2345  Thermodynamics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in MTH 1322; a grade of B or better in EGR 1302  
Thermodynamic properties, heat and work, first and second laws, processes, ideal and non-ideal cycles.
ME 2346  Introduction to Aeronautics and Astronautics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): B or better in EGR 1302; C or better in PHY 1420; and C or better in MTH 1322  
An introduction to air and space flight, including history, basic aerodynamics, aircraft performance, and orbital mechanics. Principles of stability and control, aircraft and spacecraft structures, and propulsion are explored.
ME 2V9R  Research in Mechanical Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): Consent of instructor  
Undergraduate research supervised by a faculty member. May be taken for a maximum of 6 hours.
ME 3122  Materials and Manufacturing Processes Lab  (1)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in both ME 3320 and ME 3420 and a grade of C or better or concurrent enrollment in either ME 3322 or BME 4370  
Laboratory experiments in strength of materials, property of materials, and manufacturing processes. Application of statistics and probability to material properties and manufacturing.
ME 3145  Thermal/Fluids Laboratory  (1)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3420 and a grade of C or better or concurrent enrollment in ME 3321  
Laboratory measurements of devices and systems in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Physics and operation of temperature, pressure, and flowrate measurement devices, and application of measurement concepts to analyzing the performance of pumps, pipe networks, airfoils, and thermodynamic cycles.
ME 3320  Mechanics of Materials  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2320 and MTH 2321  
Introduction of stress and strain, stress transformations, analysis of stresses, strain, and deflections in axial members, beams, and torsional shafts. Analysis of pressure vessels.
ME 3321  Fluid Mechanics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2345 and MTH 3325  
Introductory concepts of fluid motions, fluid statics, control volume forms of basic principles, and applications basic principles of fluid mechanics to problems in viscous and compressible flow.
ME 3322  Mechanical Engineering Materials and Manufacturing Processes  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in CHE 1301 and ME 3320  
Properties of the principal families of materials used in mechanical engineering design with an introduction to the manufacturing processes used to convert these materials into finished products.
ME 3323  Machine Design  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better or concurrent enrollment in ME 3322 or BME 4370  
The fundamentals of machine elements in mechanical design. Includes the analysis of components under static and fatigue loadings, and the analysis, properties, and selection of machine elements such as shafts, gears, belts, chains, brakes, clutches, bearings, screw drives, and fasteners.
ME 3345  Thermodynamics II  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2345  
Second law analysis, gas power cycles, vapor power cycles, refrigeration cycles, property relations, gas mixtures, gas-vapor mixtures, combustion, design of cycles. (3-0 )
ME 3346  Aerodynamics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 2345, C or better in MTH 3325, and C or better in ME 2346  
Study of aerodynamics including potential flow theory, airfoil theory, and viscous flow effects. Topics include boundary layers, streamlines, pathlines, wingtip vortices, lift, drag, flow separation, and stall.
ME 3349  Aerospace Structures  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 3320; C or better in ME 3322; and C or better in MTH 3325  
Study of aircraft and spacecraft structures, including load paths and distribution, stress and strain, failure criteria, and structural design applications. Topics include thin-walled beam theory, buckling, critical load, composite materials, and effects of space radiation on material properties.
ME 3420  Instrumentation and Measurements  (4)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ELC 2320 or ELC 2330 and a grade of C or better in ME 2345  
Introductory mechanical engineering laboratory experience: measurement system concepts, statistical and uncertainty analyses, survey of measurement devices, experimental design and planning.
ME 3V9R  Research in Mechanical Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): Consent of instructor  
Undergraduate research supervised by a faculty member. May be taken for a maximum of 6 hours.
ME 4305  Sustainable Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in EGR 3380  
This is an introduction to the context, concepts, and practice of sustainable engineering, and the importance of sustainable systems in the modern world. Topics will include an overview of resources and sustainability, technological systems, complexity, industrial ecology, green design principles, and life cycle assessment.
ME 4320  Computer-Aided Structural Analysis  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3320  
Structural analysis using the matrix stiffness method with applications to 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional beams, trusses and plates.
ME 4322  Computer-Aided Engineering and Design  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in EGR 3380  
Design and analysis of engineering components and systems using interactive computer programs with emphasis on computer simulation.
ME 4323  Mechanical Vibrations  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2321, ME 3320 and MTH 3325  
The theory and analysis of vibrating systems including single and multi-degrees of freedom, free and forced, vibrations, with and without damping.
ME 4324  Introduction to Finite Element Methods  (3)  
Co-requisite(s):   
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in MTH 3325  
Introduction to the basic theory and techniques of finite element analysis beginning from energy concepts and the foundational constitutive equations. Engineering applications will focus on one- and two-dimensional formulations for classical beams, frames, trusses and electrical network applications. Introduction to typical workflow of finite element analysis using modern computer technologies.
ME 4325  Dynamic Systems  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2321, MTH 2311, and MTH 3325 and a grade of C or better or concurrent enrollment in ME 4327  
Theory, analysis and simulation of dynamic systems including application of Newton's Laws and conservation of energy to model single and multiple degree-of-freedom mechanical and other dynamic engineering systems. Solutions obtained using advanced engineering mathematics and computational software.
ME 4327  Numerical Methods for Engineers  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2321, MTH 2311 and MTH 3325  
Introduction to engineering computational methods for design, from theory to algorithm to implementation. The course will discuss the following numerical methods from the engineering design perspective: roots of equations, optimization, linear systems, integration and differentiation, curve-fitting, and systems of ordinary differential equations.
ME 4330  Introduction to Robotics  (3)  
Cross-listed as ELC 4330  
See ELC 4330 for course information.
ME 4334  Gas Dynamics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 3346 or ME 3321  
This course focuses on compressible flows, where the Mach number is high enough such that the assumption of incompressibility is no longer valid. Compressible flows occur externally and/or internally in many applications, including supersonic/hypersonic jets, rockets, missiles, and more. Topics covered include supersonic flows, shock waves, shock tubes, expansion fans, and compressible flows with friction or heat transfer.
ME 4335  Mechanical Engineering Laboratory  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3345, ME 4345, PWR 3300, and STA 3381  
Measurement of fluid flow, heat transfer, power and other properties of mechanical equipment. Design of experiments, selection and use of data acquisition systems, data reporting and presentation.
ME 4336  Thermal Systems Design  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in or concurrent enrollment in ME 4345  
Design and analysis of thermal energy systems such as pipe networks, HVAC systems, and steam power plants. Specification of energy system components such as pumps, pipes, control valves, and heat exchangers.
ME 4339  Tribology  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3321  
Experimental, analytical, and computational analysis of tribology, which is the study of friction, lubrication, wear, and fatigue between contacting and sliding surfaces. Topics include the nature of rough surfaces, contact mechanics between nonconformal and nominally-flat surfaces, nature of friction, lubricants and lubrication theory, and surface damage and fatigue. Computational analyses of surfaces and lubricant flow will be performed using Python.
ME 4343  Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3321  
Study of numerical methods tailored to solve thermo-fluids governing equations. Classification of partial differential equation (PDE). Finite difference method. Basic concepts of discretization, consistency, and stability. Applications of numerical methods to selected model PDE. Numerical methods for inviscid flow, boundary-layer flow, and the Navier-Stokes equations. supersonic compressible and subsonic incompressible flows.
ME 4344  Composite Materials  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3322  
Introduction to advanced fiber-reinforced composite materials for engineering design. Topics include applications, material properties, stress analysis techniques, failure theories, and design methodologies.
ME 4345  Heat Transfer  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3321  
Steady and unsteady heat conduction including numerical solutions, thermal boundary layer concepts and applications to free and forced convection. Thermal radiation concepts. Heat exchanger design.
ME 4346  Introduction to Aeronautics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 2321 and a grade of C or better or concurrent enrollment in ME 2345  
Introduces the applied science of atmospheric flight. The course teaches about airplanes and how they fly from a design and application perspective. Included are topics in fluid dynamics, airfoil and wing theory, aircraft performance, stability, and aircraft design.
ME 4347  Analysis and Design of Propulsion Systems  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3321 and ME 2345  
Introduction to compressible flow, including flows with simple area change, heat addition, friction, and shock waves. Analysis, parametric design, and performance of ramjets, turbojets, turbofans, and turboprops. Introduction to the operating principles of major engine components. Introduction to rockets.
ME 4349  Aircraft Structural Analysis  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3320 and ME 3322  
Introduction to aircraft structures, including semi-monocoque and thin-walled structures, and the analysis techniques for these specialized structures. Understand the basis for airworthiness certification, aircraft loads, and design considerations in aerospace structures. Topics include elasticity, torsion, bending and shear stresses in thin walled structures; shear flow, and shear center.
ME 4350  Aircraft Flight Dynamics and Control  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 4346 and ME 4325  
Development of aircraft equations of motion. Examination of aircraft dynamic modes based on both limited and full degree of freedom models utilizing analytical and numerical methods. Aircraft design considerations. Determination and evaluation of aircraft flying qualities. Application of control system theory to the design of aircraft stability augmentation systems and autopilots.
ME 4354  Rocket Propulsion  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 2345; and C or better in ME 3346 or ME 3321  
Introduction to performance analysis of liquid and solid chemical rockets systems. Thrust, efficiency and other derivations, along with Thrust and Flight profile development.
ME 4355  Orbital Mechanics and Space Flight  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): B or better in EGR 1302 and C or better in PHY 1420, MTH 2311, and MTH 3325  
Study of spacecraft motion, including Kepler’s laws, orbits, and orbital maneuvers. Other topics include history, Newton’s laws, transfer efficiency, escape velocity, and re-entry.
ME 4356  Introduction to Space Flight  (3)  
An interdisciplinary introduction to the basics, concepts, methods, and applications of space flight. Topics include fundamental principles, history, space environment, orbital mechanics, launch vehicles, propulsion systems, spacecraft (e.g., satellites, probes, space stations), applications (Earth observation, astronomy, interplanetary exploration, commercial utilization), international space efforts, regulations, and future activities.
ME 4357  Cardiovascular Engineering and Instrumentation  (3)  
Cross-listed as BME 4357, EGR 4357, ELC 4357  
See BME 4357 for course information.
ME 4360  Renewable Energy Devices  (3)  
Cross-listed as EGR 4360  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ELC 2320 or ELC 2330  
Introduction to the basic concepts, principles, potential, and limitations of several energy conversion and storage devices with a focus on solar cells, fuel cells, batteries, inverters, wind power, and hydropower with real world examples. Design and/or application of various renewable energy sources, materials, and devices.
ME 4362  Principles of Process Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): Senior standing in Engineering or instructor approval  
Overview of the principles of process engineering, where process engineering is loosely described as converting matter from raw materials to more valuable forms. Provides an understanding of the major aspects of process engineering as embodied in chemical, environmental, or biomolecular engineering.
ME 4363  Advanced Concepts of Process Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 4362  
Provides a deeper examination of some process engineering topics initially covered in the “Principles of Process Engineering” course. Topics include reaction engineering, unit operations, chemical measurements, process data analysis, and flowsheeting of a process.
ME 4364  Introduction to Additive Manufacturing  (3)  
Co-requisite(s):   
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better or concurrent enrollment in ME 3322  
This course introduces various aspects of additive manufacturing, which has become prominent in industry over the past two decades. The aim of this course is to give the students a basic understanding of additive manufacturing and its use in design, both for rapid prototyping and for functional manufacturing. Specifically, this course will highlight the advances that additive manufacturing makes upon traditional manufacturing techniques.
ME 4377  Solar Energy  (3)  
Cross-listed as ELC 4377  
See ELC 4377 for course information.
ME 4380  Microscopy Techniques for Material Science  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 3322  
Introduction to the basic principles of structural, chemical and property characterization techniques. The course is grounded in modern X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy techniques for characterization of the chemical and structural properties of a material. The course introduces the fundamental theoretical framework for diffraction, spectrometry and imaging methods.
ME 4381  Advanced Mechanics of Materials  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 3320 and ME 3322  
Analysis of stresses and strains at a point, stress-strain relationships, stresses due to various loading conditions, theories of failure, energy methods, shear center, unsymmetrical bending, curved beams, torsion in closed and open cell cross-sections, principles of plastic analysis, and buckling analysis.
ME 4382  Selection of Materials and Manufacturing Processes in Design  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3320, ME 3322, and ME 3323  
Systematic approach for selection of materials and manufacturing process in design that balances performance requirements with cost of materials and manufacturing. Material properties, manufacturing processes and types of materials. Advanced computer software and case studies are used to illustrate application of principles.
ME 4384  Engineering with Plastics  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3322  
Introduction to engineering plastics, including manufacturing process and mechanical properties, elastic and viscoelastic behavior of polymers and polymeric composites, predicting long-term behavior from short-term tests using time-temperature-superposition, relating chemical structure to mechanical properties for thermosets and amorphous or semi-crystalline thermoplastics, environmental stress cracking in polymers, relating processing to mechanical properties, introduction to injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming, compression molding, and blow molding.
ME 4385  Failure Analysis and Product Liability  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3322  
How components and systems fail; how to determine the probable cause of specific failures; practical skills to do failure analyses; product liability as it applies to product failures and litigation. Class time and homework assignment will use principally a case studies approach.
ME 4386  Properties and Processing of Electronic Materials  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3322  
Modern microelectronic technologies utilize the electrical, magnetic and optical properties of materials to develop new devices for a wide variety of cutting edge applications. A strong foundation in materials physics and chemistry helps engineers/scientists to understand these properties. The course will highlight: 1) structure-property relationships and 2) materials used for various electronic and optoelectronic device applications.
ME 4388  Corrosion and Sustainable Metallurgy  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in ME 3322  
Introduction to the eight forms of corrosion. Sustainable engineering concepts, with an emphasis on metallic materials. Alternative metallic designs. Course will culminate in a sustainable materials design project.
ME 4390  Engineering Design II  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): A grade of C or better in EGR 3380, final Fall or Spring semester before graduation; A grade of C or better in STA 3381; A grade of C or better in ME 3323  
A capstone design course for emphasizing the decision-making process that must be used by a practicing engineer to apply the basic sciences in order to convert resources optimally to meet stated objectives. Oral and written reports are required.
ME 4391  Aerospace Design I  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 3349  
An introduction to aircraft and spacecraft design. Discussion of basic mission considerations for spacecraft design including space environment, astrodynamics and atmospheric re-entry. Introduction to process of aircraft conceptual design - from requirements definition to initial sizing, configuration layout, analysis, optimization, and trade studies.
ME 4392  Aerospace Design II  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): C or better in ME 4334, ME 4350, ME 4355, ME 4391, and ME 4347 or ME 4354  
A capstone design course allowing students to focus on either an aircraft or a spacecraft design. Application of concepts and design theory developed in earlier courses to the design of an aerospace vehicle.
ME 4396  Special Topics in Mechanical Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): Consent of Department Chair  
Study of advanced topics in mechanical engineering. This course may be repeated once under a different topic.
ME 4V97  Special Projects in Mechanical Engineering  (1-6)  
Pre-requisite(s): Consent of department chair  
Advanced topics and/or special project activities in Mechanical Engineering.
ME 4V9R  Research in Mechanical Engineering  (3)  
Pre-requisite(s): Consent of instructor  
Undergraduate research supervised by a faculty member. May be taken for a maximum of 6 hours.