Instrumentation For A New Strength Of Materials Laboratory

In order to provide the students with practical knowledge and hands-on laboratory experience, and with a view to emphasize the importance of bending moments and shear force diagrams, it was decided to create a new strength of materials laboratory for the engineering technology program at Miami University Hamilton Campus. The main objective was to encourage students to accomplish a variety of tasks, particularly in the area of materials science and strength of materials. However, the principal focus was to conduct detailed mathematical analysis pertaining to the study flexure of beams, with particular emphasis on bending moment and shear force diagrams, stress, strain, deflection, catenary curves and other properties. The students will be able to generate appropriate and relevant engineering data that would be successfully utilized in a real-world situation, such as building a bridge to transport heavy equipment. In this project, the author reports on the results, accomplishments and milestones achieved. Eventually, when student groups work on their experimental project, they would be able to understand and appreciate the needs and necessities of engineering design methodologies. They will also be able to effectively utilize and apply the knowledge gathered and gained during the study period of several semesters, in a variety of courses. Whenever appropriate, comparisons are made and analogies are provided, so that the students will be able to identify the similarities that exist between mechanical, electrical and thermal models. While conducting and completing this experiment, the students are strongly encouraged to apply their knowledge of physics, chemistry, mathematics, electric circuit analysis, materials science, statics, strength of materials, dynamics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer. Further, it was also essential that the new lab satisfied several key elements pertaining to Miami University’s Plan for Liberal Education. “Proceedings of the 2003 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition © 2003, American Society for Engineering Education” P ge 817.1 ABET Engineering Criteria Criterion 3 of the ABET Engineering Criteria 2000 addresses “Program outcomes and assessment.” The criterion requires that “Engineering programs must demonstrate that their graduates possess the following capabilities. An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering. (a) An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret (b) scientific and engineering data. An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs. (c) An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams. (d) An ability to identify, formulate and solve engineering problems. (e) An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility. (f) An ability to communicate effectively. (g) The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a (h) global and societal context. Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning. (i) Knowledge of contemporary issues. (j) An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for (k) engineering practice. Miami University offers, both engineering and engineering technology programs, all within the umbrella of School of Engineering and Applied Science. It is therefore necessary to understand the criteria dictated by the engineering technology division of the ABET organization, as well.