ECE 535 Design of Electromechanical Systems

3 Credit Hours

(also offered as MAE 535)

A practical introduction to electromechanical systems with emphasis on modeling, analysis and design techniques. Provides theory and practical tools for the design of electric machines (standard motors, linear actuators, magnetic bearings, LVDTs, etc). Involves a “hands on” experimental demonstration and culminates in an industry-sponsored design project. Topics include Maxwell’s equations, magnetic circuit analysis, electromechanical energy conversion, finite element analysis, and design techniques. FAQ: How can individual distance students participate in “hands-on” demonstrations and design projects? Answer: Quite easily. Any student with access to basic supplies (wire, batteries, magnets, a video camera, etc.) can participate effectively in experimental demonstration projects (many of the best demonstrations have been submitted by individual distance students with limited resources). Of course, students with access to digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, function generators and similar technologies are encouraged to use them. The design project has no “hands on” component; it utilizes computational tools (MATLAB, Simulink, FEMM, ANSYS, etc.) that can be installed as student versions and through NCSU’s Virtual Computing Lab (VCL).