Design Of Thermal Systems Using Optimization And Metaheuristic Methods

The goal of an engineering education is the preparation of the engineers to solve industrial-type problems that are ill-structured, complex, and contain multiple constraints. One way to provide this type of problem solving environment in an academic environment is to use problem-based learning based on industry-supplied problems. A proposed course in thermal system design, for advanced undergraduates and graduate students, which uses a problem-based approach to teaching thermal system design is described. This proposed course uses operations research methods in a team-based problem solving environment that simulates an industrial setting.