Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College · Courses
ME
128 courses with the subject ME, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
ME 101Toy Fundamentals: First-Year Seminar1
First-Year Seminar focusing on toy design and manufacture. M E 101S Toy Fundamentals (1)(FYS) Toy Fundamentals is a First-Year Seminar intending to be an introduction to engineering design and prototyping through a product type everyone has used: toys! This five-week class explores the history of toys, marketing, toy design for different ages, and includes toy dissection, design, prototyping and field testing. It will run in the first 5 weeks of the semester.
First-Year Seminar focusing on the development of technology exploration kits for middle-school-aged children. M E 102S Toys for Technology Exploration: First-Year Seminar (1) This is a First-Year Seminar that focuses on an important sub-group of toys. 'Learning- by-doing' is a recognized method for improving student's learning in grades K-12 (and in college!). As part of 'Toys for Technology Exploration', existing hands-on kits used for science and math education for ages 10-14 will be reviewed. The new standards for science and technology education in Pennsylvania are used to guide new hands-on kit designs, and these designs will be prototyped and field-tested with public school students.Note: Class size, frequency of offering, and evaluation methods will vary by location and instructor. For these details check the specific course syllabus.
ME 190Special Topics in Mechanical Engineering: First-Year Seminar1
A First-Year Seminar focusing on issues related to Mechanical Engineering. M E 190S M E 190S Special Topics in Mechanical Engineering: First-Year Seminar (1) (FYS)In this First-Year Seminar, students will explore the Mechanical Engineering profession by means of treatment of a particular topic in M E. Students will be assigned pertinent readings and the professor will lead discussions on the ethical, professional, and societal aspects of the topic area. The seminar will also feature group activities and encourage participation in the classroom setting.
/Maximum of 9 Formal courses given on a topical or special interest subject offered infrequently; several different topics may be taught in one year or semester. This Special Topics is a GenEd course.
3 G. 1 CE 360 Fluid Mechanics 3 EME 303 Fluid Mechanics in Energy and Mineral 3 Engineering 3 H. 5 GEOSC 470W Introduction to Field Geology 3 MNG 470 3 Supporting Courses and Related Areas 4 Select 6 credits in consultation with adviser (students may apply 6 6 4 credits of ROTC) The following substitutions are allowed for students attending campuses where the indicated course is not offered: CAS 100 can be 2 substituted for EMSC 100S.
Experimental work to enhance understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 320 Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: ME 410 Undergraduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 4541
This one-credit laboratory course is structured to reinforce the various principles taught in the corresponding 3-credit lecture course - M E 410, Heat Transfer. The laboratory includes several different experiments whose objective is to reintroduce and reinforce the various principles associated with conduction, convection, radiation and heat exchangers. Each laboratory session begins with a thorough review of the relevant material covered in the lecture course, including the use of energy conservation on control volumes related to the experiment and related simplifications. Prior to conducting any experiment, the students are informed about the particular safety issues that vary from one experiment to another. The students are then briefed about the setup of the data acquisition systems, what type of data the need to be collected, and how the data then is coupled to the review of the specific laboratory topic. At the end of the semester, the students should be able to interface a typical data acquisition system with those used in industry and elsewhere. The students generally work in groups to collect data, with reports prepared individually after an experiment is completed. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: (ME 345 or ME 348) and ME 410
This course is an introduction to fluid mechanics, and emphasizes fundamental concepts and problem-solving techniques. Topics to be covered include fluid properties (density, viscosity, vapor pressure, surface tension); fluid statics (hydrostatic pressure, pressure forces on planar and curved surfaces); fluid kinematics (flow visualization, vorticity, Reynolds transport theorem); control volume analysis (conservation laws of mass, momentum, and energy, Bernoulli equation); dimensional analysis (dimensional homogeneity, method of repeating variables, experimental testing, similarity); internal flows (pipe flows, major and minor losses, piping networks, matching pumps to systems); differential analysis (Navier-Stokes equation, creeping flow, potential flow, boundary layers); external flows (lift and drag, pressure vs. friction drag); and compressible flow (isentropic flow through nozzles, shock waves). Brief introductions to computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and turbomachinery (pumps and turbines) will also be provided. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: EMCH 212 and MATH 251 and (ME 201 or ME 300) and (MATH 230 or MATH 231)
The course is designed for students to understand basic concepts of fluid mechanics through analysis of experimental data from various sources. The course emphasizes hands-on experience to take measurements, analyze and interpret experimental data. An important component of this course fosters an ability to write laboratory reports and to creatively generate independent ideas that involve the study of fluid mechanics through development and execution of final project. The course aims to developed teamwork (no hyphen needed, this is one word) skills and advanced proficiency in professional communications and interactions. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 320 and (ME 345 or ME 348)
This course gives students physical insights as well as introductory skills on the use of modern computational tools in solving mechanical engineering problems. The course has two main thrusts: 1) finite element analysis for structural/thermal mechanics and 2) computational fluid dynamics for fluid flows. Students will use commercial codes to solve fundamental problems associated with statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics. Particular emphasis will be placed on comparing simulation results to analytical solutions. Students will also use the computational tools to parametrically study the solution space that enable informed design strategies. This class will prepare mechanical engineering students to solve technical problems in their courses, summer internships, and ultimately in their engineering career. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: EMCH 212 and EMCH 213 and MATH 251 and PHYS 212
The design process; problem definition, conceptual design, system design, detail design, evaluation and test, implementation, documentation and communication. M E 340 Mechanical Engineering Design Methodology (3) This course is intended to provide mechanical engineering students with the fundamental tools to produce an effective design solution in a realistic professional environment with conflicting customer needs and technical capabilities. The students will identify the system design targets through interaction with the 'customer', develop multiple conceptual designs, select the best design solution and produce a functional prototype. The course is project driven with significant input from the students in defining the work objectives and goals. Initially several mini-projects will be assigned with specific objectives such as identifying customer needs, quantifying technical design specifications and decision making. The course culminates with a student team based design competition. The competition provides an opportunity to apply the design process to an open-ended mechanical engineering problem. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: EDSGN 100 and Concurrent at Enrollment: (ME 320 or BME 409) and ME 360
ME 345Instrumentation, Measurements, and Statistics4
Fundamentals of statistics, sensors, instrumentation, and measurement of mechanical phenomena such as temperature, flow, pressure, force, stress, displacement, and acceleration. M E 345 Instrumentation, Measurements, and Statistics (4) This course is required for all mechanical engineering students. It serves as an introduction to the fundamental principles of instrumentation and measurement, along with statistics, and integrates and applies what the students have learned in their electrical engineering course. The course includes a 3-hour-per- week hands-on laboratory where students apply the material learned in the lecture. For many students this is the first time they have actual hands-on experience with electronics and measurement equipment, such as oscilloscopes, breadboards, function generators, digital data acquisition systems, integrated circuits strain gages, displacement meters, thermocouples, tachometers, dynamometers, filters, volume flow meters, velocity meters, pressure transducers, etc. Students learn not only how to use these devices in the lab, but also the fundamental principles of their operation. Statistical analysis is integrated into the course, especially in the hands-on laboratories, where statistics is used to analyze and interpret acquired data. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: EE 211 or EE 212 or EE 210
ME 345WInstrumentation, Measurements, and Statistics4
Measurement concepts, probability and statistics, error analysis; electro- mechanical transducers, applied electrical and mechanical measurements, electrical and electronics instruments, data acquisition and instrumentation systems. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: EE 212 or EE 211 or equivalent Writing Across the Curriculum
ME 348Circuit Analysis, Instrumentation, and Statistics (4) This course
is required for all mechanical engineering students, and is taken in the junior year. It serves as an introduction to the fundamental principles of circuit analysis, instrumentation and measurement, as well as statistics. The course includes a 3-hour-per-week, hands-on laboratory where students explore the concepts taught in the lecture. For many students this is the first time they have actual hands-on experience with electronics and measurement equipment, such as oscilloscopes, breadboards, function generators, digital data acquisition systems, integrated circuits strain gages, displacement meters, thermocouples, tachometers, dynamometers, filters, volume flow meters, velocity meters, pressure transducers, etc. Students learn not only how to use these devices in the lab, but also the fundamental principles of their operation. Statistical analysis is integrated into the course, especially in the hands- on laboratories, where statistics is used to analyze and interpret acquired data. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: MATH 251 and PHYS 212
Intermediate topics in mechanics of materials with computer applications. M E 349 Intermediate Mechanics of Materials (3) This course introduces students to intermediate and applied topics in mechanical behavior of materials with an emphasis on design and computation. This course will give students the tools to do practical analysis and the foundation needed to prepare them for other mechanical engineering courses in design and other elective courses. Subjects covered include stress analysis, deformation & deflection, material failure and finite element analysis. Stress analysis includes the study of stress concentrations, stress transformations and principal stresses. Stress-based static failure theories for brittle and ductile materials are investigated. Two-way bending of beams is covered as well as torsional deformation of non-circular cross sections. Buckling and pressure vessels are introduced as separate topics while the finite element analysis is introduced as a computational tool to study stress and deformation. Throughout the course students will use a commercial finite element program to verify and visualize results from analysis of the various topics. During the course, students are introduced to the basic theory of the finite element method.
Experimental investigation of simple position, velocity, and temperature control systems with analog and digital controllers. M E 355 Dynamic Systems Laboratory (1) The objective of the Dynamic Systems Laboratory is to enable students to experimentally investigate the calibration, response characteristics, modeling, and control of mechanical and fluid systems. This course is intended to allow students to develop some hands-on experience and working knowledge of basic dynamic and control systems. Specifically, to 1. Identify the actuators, sensors, plants, and controllers of physical control systems.2. Calibrate encoders, temperature, laser displacement, and flow sensors.3. Measure steady state, step, and frequency response of thermal, fluid, and mechanical systems.4. Compare simulation and experimental results to validate theoretical model.5. Design PID controllers for thermal, fluid, and mechanical systems.6. Implement and test PID controllers for thermal, fluid, and mechanical systems. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 345 or ME 348 Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: (ME 357 or ME 450)
Mathematical modeling and analysis of linear dynamic systems; performance and design of simple controllers. M E 357 System Dynamics (3)This course is to explore the modeling of linear systems via transfer functions and state-space models; analysis of systems in the time and frequency domain using transfer functions and stat-space models; development of control techniques based on PID. The use of software Matlab and Simulink is another emphasis. Students are evaluated through the use of written exams during the semester, a comprehensive written final, weekly homework assignments, and a design project. This course is required in the ME BD program at Behrend, integrates material from a number of previous courses, and provides the student with tools that will be used in a number of subsequent courses. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: CMPSC 200 and (EE 211 or EE 212) and MATH 251
Specification of components such as shafts, bearings, and power transformers; optimal designs for operational, environmental, and manufacturing requirements. ME 360 Mechanical Design (3) This course is required for all mechanical engineering students. It is an introduction to analysis and design of mechanical components. It helps provide practical insight into theory provided by prerequisites in engineering mechanics and materials science. Students initially perform yielding and fatigue failure predictions for general structural elements and then focus on specific mechanical components such as gears, fluid film bearing, rolling element bearings, screws, shafts, and springs. Use and interpretation of finite element analyses (FEA) are also introduced. The overall goals are for students to learn to make basic design decisions regarding the suitability of different materials in mechanical components (e.g. steel versus aluminum), and to make basic design decisions Undergraduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 4543 regarding the suitability of different components in a mechanical system (e.g. ball bearings versus fluid film bearings). Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: EMCH 213 Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: CMPSC 200 or CMPSC 201
Design and selection of machine components and connections. Stress analysis and modes of failure of materials used in machine components. M E 367 Machine Design (3) This course introduces students to the process for selection, design and failure analysis of various common machine elements. This course will give students the foundation to design mechanical systems and the tools to design, select, or analyze machine components for practical applications necessary for their design projects and other mechanical engineering electives. Subjects include the reliability, safety factors, and the design of machine elements including shafts, roller bearings, brakes, clutches, gears, belt and chain drives, and additional topics such as screws, springs, journal bearings, and connections. Both static and cyclic loading are considered as part of the design and analysis process. Extensive use is made of material properties, design tables, figures and graphs to assist in the design and analysis process. The course includes a comprehensive project that incorporates several of the topics covered in the course in the design of a mechanical system. The goal of the project is for students to learn how various machine Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 349 Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: MATSE 259
Modeling and analysis of vibration characteristics of mechanical systems with single degree and multiple degrees of freedom. Vibration control by isolation, absorption and balancing. M E 370 Vibration of Mechanical Systems (3) The course studies vibration characteristics of mechanical systems and vibration control. It is divided into four main topics. Fundamental aspects of mechanical vibrations are studied
Experimental measurement and analysis of mechanical system dynamics. This laboratory course provides an opportunity to apply the fundamental vibrations theory taught in ME 370 to actual mechanical hardware. The experiments illustrate fundamental concepts from an experimental vibration perspective. Experimental vibration measurement methods are applied to estimate simplified dynamic models for vibrating mechanical systems. The students compare analytical to experimental results to gain a sense of the limitations of both modeling and experimentation. Experiments include: free vibration of linear and nonlinear systems, response, measurement of translational and rotational, forced harmonic vibration, spectral analysis of vibration signals, experimental data uncertainty and comparison of finite element model dynamic results to experimental data. Throughout the course the students will: 1. Plan, implement and debug instrumentation to measure vibrations of mechanical systems. 2. Implement experimental test systems using vibration transducers and data acquisition to maximize measurement quality. 3. Recognize the dominant behavior seen in many larger, more complicated engineering systems. 4. Estimate the system vibration parameters 5. Use software to compare measured and predicted dynamic behavior. 6. Recognize dominant nonlinear behavior and implement a nonlinear simulation using software. 7. Verify the results of computer analyses of dynamic systems by various methods including experimental measurement and analytical modeling. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: ME 370 and (ME 345 or ME 348)
Kinematic analysis of mechanisms such as linkages, flywheels, cams and gears. Dynamic forces and vibrations of mechanisms. M E 380 Machine Dynamics (3)In this course students learn how to apply the techniques of dynamics to analyze both the motion and forces associated with planar mechanisms. Students learn how to model and solve for the position, velocity, acceleration and forces on linkages using vectors. They also study the kinematics of gears, flywheels and cams. Machine vibrations is introduced as an integral part of Machine Dynamics. Students learn how to model simple mechanical systems as vibrating systems and then analyze the vibratory response of these systems. Once these analytical skills have been developed, the students can apply these skills to the design of linkages, internal combustion engines, gears, shafts and cams. Several in-class exams are used to evaluate students' performance. Computer problems are assigned so students can experience the solution methods to some of the more complex problems. This required course integrates material from calculus and dynamics to provide the student with tools that can be used to analyze the motion of machinery and can be used in the design of machinery and machine components. It is offered annually in the Fall semester and occasionally in the Spring semester. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: EMCH 212 and MATH 251
/Maximum of 18 Supervised off-campus, nongroup instruction including field experiences, practica, or internships. Written and oral critique of activity required. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: Prior approval of proposed assignment by instructor
ME 400Thermodynamics of Propulsion and Power Systems3
Analysis and modeling of propulsion and power systems, including combustion, compressible flow through nozzles, chemical equilibrium, and moist air systems. M E 400 Thermodynamics of Propulsion and Power Systems (3) This course is specifically designed to provide an integrative modeling and analysis approach to thermal-fluids systems.
Theoretical principles, design, performance, and selection of various refrigeration and air-conditioning systems; building heat and cooling loads; solar heating. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 410
Introduction to Fundamentals of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells (PEFCs). Includes fundamentals of electrochemistry, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer materials, and manufacturing issues of PEFCs. A brief survey of other fuel cell types is also included. M E 403 Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Engines (3) This course is intended for the engineering student interested in obtaining a fundamental background required for polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) modeling and diagnosis. Those students with interest in the basic design, operation, and characteristics of PEFC systems should also benefit. This course serves as an introduction to the fundamental principles of electrochemistry, thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, materials and manufacturing issues related to PEFC engines. The various types of PEFC components and technologies are dissected in detail, including direct inject alternativ fuel systems. A survey of cutting-edge issues in fuel cell technology including the future direction of PEFC technology will be presented as time permits. The student will also participate in an experimental lab study to aide in the understanding of these systems, a computer-based simulation project, and a group-based fuel cell system design project. Issues of specific interest to mechanical engineers, including water management and heat and mass transfer in thin film porous media, will be dealt with in depth. A brief survey of other fuel cell types is also presented. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: ME 410
This course enables students with the proper background to gain specialized knowledge as a step towards becoming practitioners in the field of gas turbines. The information imparted covers from basic cycles to properties of materials required to put together these impressive machines. Competent course performance requires knowledge of basic thermodynamics, fluids and heat transfer. The homework is carefully graduated in order to highlight key aspects already covered in the lectures, with new thinking an unavoidable part. As an optional part of the course, students can run and acquire data in an actual gas turbine. Additionally, those with a strong background in fluids can design Undergraduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 4545 blades and study the flow around them with CDF. Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 1. Analyze cogeneration plants. 2. Analyze turbofans, jets and turbojets. 3. Specify a typical gas turbine installation, including auxiliaries. 4. Carry out conceptual design of gas turbine engines for different applications. 5. Specify construction materials to withstand typical operating conditions. 6. Demonstrate professionalism in interactions with colleagues, faculty, and staff. Program Objectives: This course covers the following program objectives: 1. demonstrate ability to solve differential equations 2. demonstrate familiarity with linear algebra 3. perform analysis of thermal/fluids components 4. perform analysis of thermal/fluids systems 5. work effectively on multidisciplinary teams 6. demonstrate ability to communicate effectively with the written word 7. demonstrate ability to communicate effectively in oral communications 8. demonstrate professionalism in interactions with colleagues, faculty, and staff Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 300
Prediction of the motion of contaminants (both gaseous particulate) in gas streams; analysis of ventilation systems and air pollution control systems; comparison of experimental sampling techniques. M E 405 Indoor Air Quality Engineering (3) This course serves as an introduction to environmental health engineering, which presents the quantitative relationships describing generation, movement, and control of pollutants inside the workplace. Although some aspects of the course can be applied to outdoor air pollution, the course concentrates on applications related to indoor air quality. In particular, students are taught how to measure and predict concentrations of air pollutants, both gaseous and particulate, in rooms. In addition, they are taught how to design both local and general ventilation systems to maintain acceptable indoor air quality. In addition, the design of air pollution control systems that remove both gaseous and particulate contaminants from the air is discussed.The relationships are described by mass and energy balances e that relate pollutant generation and movement to process parameters. The course is designed for seniors and graduate students in Mechanical, Chemical, Environmental and Civil Engineering, and Meteorology.To work effectively in environmental health engineering, students must be proficient in applying the thermal sciences. The course uses principles of mathematics and thermal sciences included in accredited programs of engineering. Most students will have mastered some of these principles, but few will have mastered them all. The course reviews all the necessary thermal science principles before using them, but some students will need to review this material in more detail than others.This course is offered once per year.Course Objectives:a. Demonstrate the ability to analyze and compare risks associated with various activities and with exposure to hazardous chemicals.b. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the physiology and function of the respiratory system, including diseases of the lung.c. Demonstrate the ability to estimate pollutant emission rates using emission factors and fundamental mass balance techniques.d. Analyze practical problems of general and local ventilation requirements.e. Design local ventilation systems using standard guidelines from ACGIH and ASHRAE.f. Predict the motion of particles in air, and analyze pollution control devices which remove particles from the air.g. Demonstrate professionalism in interactions with colleagues, faculty, and staff.Program Objectives:a. demonstrate knowledge of chemistryb. demonstrate ability to solve differential equationsC. demonstrate familiarity with statisticsd. perform analysis of thermal/fluids components and thermal/fluids systemse. demonstrate an appreciation of the economic, global, social, and ethical context of
Statistical description of systems composed of large numbers of particles in the context of classical and quantum mechanics; basic concepts of probability theory and thermodynamics as they relate to statistical mechanics. M E (NUC E) 406 Introduction to Statistical Thermodynamics (3) This course is an introduction to probabilistic and statistical concepts in the physical sciences, which we refer to as 'statistical thermodynamics.' In areas such as design and processing of electronic devices, materials engineering, chemical engineering, and combustion engineering, the science of statistical mechanics is a particularly necessary, powerful, and important tool for the engineer. The underlying foundation of statistical mechanics is developed by (1) reviewing the basic ideas from probability theory, (2) deriving the binomial, Poisson, and Gaussian probability distributions, and (3) using these models to analyze several examples taken from science and engineering. To make a connection between macroscopic quantities and the corresponding probabilistic representation, classical thermodynamics is reviewed using the internal energy, entropy, and free energy functions in the context of the first and second laws. Statistical mechanics for classical and quantum-mechanical systems is presented via the micro-canonical, canonical, and grand canonical ensembles using the associated partition functions. During the syntheses of ideas, applications from various branches of science are presented. Some examples of applications are the Einstein crystal, the Debye crystal, the ideal gas, and black body radiation.This course covers the following program objectives: 1. Demonstrate knowledge of basic chemistry and physics. 2. Demonstrate a knowledge of atomic and nuclear physics. 3. Demonstrate a knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid flow. 4. Understand and apply the basic concepts of particle transport. 5, Understand and apply thermodynamics and heat transfer principles to the analysis of nuclear power components and systems. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: (ME 300 or ME 201) and (MATH 230 or MATH 231) Cross-listed with: NUCE 406
Theory, analysis, design, selection, and application of energy conversion systems. This course is intended for mechanical engineering students to reinforce the topics taught in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer; gives students familiarity with energy conversion systems using traditional and renewable energy sources which are typically encountered by mechanical engineers, and improves students' analytical and design skills. Coverage of materials include heat exchanger analysis, selection, and design with respect to heat transfer, pressure drop, and fluid pumping requirements; analysis and design of power cycles based on thermodynamic principles; fundamentals of combustion processes; introduction to wind energy and wind turbine aerodynamic analysis; fuel cell fundamentals and analysis of fuel cell problems and systems based on thermodynamics and heat transfer principles. Students will be evaluated by homework assignments; individual and small team projects; and exams. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 410
Supporting Courses and Related Areas Select 8 credits from technical courses on department option list 8 3 Students having successfully completed ROTC upon graduation, may 3 apply 3 credits of ROTC to these courses. Additionally, 3 credits of 2 ROTC may be applied to GHW. Structural Option (35 credits) Code Title Credits
Thermal design and application of different heat-exchanger types, including surface selection and design optimization. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 410
This course is a technical elective. We cover several unique concepts and applications of compressible flow, including: speed of sound and Mach number, isentropic 1-D flow in variable area ducts, converging nozzles, choking, converging-diverging nozzles, moving shocks, blast waves, shock tubes, Rayleigh flow (duct flow with heat transfer), Fanno flow (duct flow with friction), normal and oblique shock waves, expansion fans, and other topics to be announced, time permitting. Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 1. Solve a range of compressible-flow problems often encountered in engineering practice, including adiabatic isentropic flow in ducts and normal and oblique shock wave analysis. 2. Apply physical thinking and problem-solving techniques to practical problems using fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. 3. Integrate previous course material in fluids and thermodynamics into the study of compressible flow. 4. Apply computer programs (Matlab, Excel, EES, Javascript calculators, etc.)
Conservation laws pertinent to energy conversion and fluid mechanics are applied to pumps, centrifugal compressors, axial compressors and turbines, hydro turbines and wind turbines. Ideal performance is established, and conventional loss correlations are applied to define potential performance of turbomachinery. The applications of similarity and dimensionless parameters towards characterizing turbomachines are outlined. The course objectives are; 1. Review/ acquire thermofluids concepts applicable to turbomachinery such as Reynolds transport theorem, First and Second laws, isentropic efficiencies, potential flow, dissipative flows. 2. Develop an understanding of working principles applicable to centrifugal, axial and mixed flow machinery. Extend concepts applicable to hydro and wind turbines. Develop approximations for both compressible and incompressible flows. 3. Gain an understanding of loss calculations. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 320
ME 423Introduction to Numerical Methods in Fluid Dynamics3
This course provides an introduction to the important and growing field of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The student will become familiar with a short history and relevance of CFD, the basic differential models of fluid dynamics, discretization and linearization practices, and solution strategies of CFD. Fundamentals of algorithm classification, error and stability analysis will be covered. Also, several advanced topics of relevance to modern CFD analysis will be covered. A term project will involve coding a CFD model of one of several choices including: 2D shallow wave equations for application to a tsunami, unsteady conjugate flow+heat transfer analysis of a pin array, and others per the instructor's discretion. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: (AERSP 312 or ME 320) and (MATH 250 or MATH 251) and (CMPSC 200 or CMPSC 201) Cross-listed with: AERSP 423
Explore various aspects of 3D printing. Topics will vary by semester, depending on the current technology and advancements in the field. This laboratory course provides an integrated approach to additive manufacturing and reverse engineering. The course introduces basic operating procedures for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers and gives instruction on repair, troubleshooting, and print optimization techniques. The laboratory examines the important relationships between 3D printing parameters and the final object¿s material properties. In addition, reverse engineering and rapid prototyping topics are covered. The laboratory exercises provide students with a broad appreciation of the current technological capabilities of FDM 3D printing and an understanding of when to implement the technology over a Undergraduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 4547 traditional manufacturing technique. Written technical and research reports and proposals, Inventor models, and 3D printed models are the primary basis for grading. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 349
The primary objective of this course is to teach students how to apply concepts relating to incompressible flows to solve aerodynamic design problems. In incompressible aerodynamics, fundamental concepts such as lift, drag, aerodynamic moment, induced drag, viscous drag, pressure drag, separation, stall, circulation, downwash, camber, thickness ratio, and lift distribution are discussed. Students use these concepts primarily to determine aerodynamic lift and drag using a variety of techniques, including potential flow theory and wind tunnel testing. Based on instructor preference and expertise, additional topics relating to incompressible and/or compressible aerodynamics may be also discussed. Students will be evaluated through the use of written exams during the semester, a comprehensive written final, and weekly homework assignments. This course is a technical elective in the ME programs at the Behrend, Berks and Harrisburg campuses and allows students who have completed ME 320, Elementary Fluid Mechanics, to improve their understanding of fluids and thermodynamics by covering the subject in more detail and applying it specifically to aerodynamic problems. It will usually be offered annually. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 320
Introduction to theory and application of computational techniques for solving fluid flow and heat transfer. M E 428 Applied Computational Fluid Dynamics (3) The purpose of this course is to teach students how to use a commercial CFD code to solve real-world engineering fluid flow problems. The definition of appropriate problem domain, set of governing equations, boundary conditions, and fluid properties is discussed. Sufficient theory of CFD is covered so that students are able to select appropriate elements or interpolation techniques and options, mesh size, pressure-correction technique and solution technique. Students are also taught how to interpret the results of a CFD simulation, including determination that the solution is physically realistic, conforms to the governing equations, is converged and grid independent, and determination of important engineering quantities such as net force, pressure drop and flow rate. Students are evaluated through the use of written exams during the semester, a comprehensive written final, weekly homework assignments, and a semester project. This course is a technical elective in the Mechanical Engineering program and allows students who are interested in fluid mechanics and heat transfer to further their study. It is offered periodically. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 320 and ME 410
Concepts related to laminar and turbulent premixed and nonpremixed combustion with applications to propulsion and stationary systems. EGEE (M E) 430 Introduction to Combustion (3) This course provides an introductory treatment of combustion science. The objectives of the
This course is specifically designed to provide an integrative modeling and analysis approach to thermal-fluids systems. The course emphasizes the integration and application of fundamental principles of mass, momentum, and energy conservation to relatively complex systems. These systems include spark-ignition and diesel engines, gas-turbine engines for power production, and turbojet engines. The integration of the topics of combustion, compressible flow, and psychrometrics allow these systems to be analyzed in their totality. Emphasis is on creating engineering models of these systems. The course aims to integrate previous knowledge and develop skill in "thinking like an engineer. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 300 and ME 320
Overview of underlying theories and design practices of chemical and non-chemical rocket propulsion systems. The topical areas include basic thermodynamics and gas dynamics, propellant formulation and characterization, component and system designs, and test evaluation. At the conclusion of this course, students will have obtained fundamental knowledge and design rules of various rocket propulsion systems, including solid, liquid, and hybrid rockets, as well as electric propulsio engines. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 300 and ME 320
Natural and man-made sources of pollution; atmospheric dispersion; biological and health effects; control systems; legislation and regulations. This course is an introduction to air pollution, with an emphasis on outdoor rather than indoor air pollution. Topics to be covered include sources (emissions) of air pollution, both gaseous and particulate, interaction of air pollution with our bodies and the environment, and methods of measuring, quantifying, analyzing, and controlling air pollution. A brief introduction to government regulations related to air pollution will also be provided. Students are expected to be proficient in applying mathematics (e.g., integration, differentiation, and application of differential equations), and some basic chemistry, statistics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 201 or ME 300
Problem formulation, algorithms and computer solution of various engineering optimization problems. M E 444 Engineering Optimization (3)Students will learn to formulate and solve a variety of engineering optimization problems. Basic concepts, problem formulation, scaling, use of different optimizers, effect of tuning parameters and starting points and solution interpretation will be taught. Example problems will be taken from mechanical, aerospace, nuclear, civil, chemical, electrical and other engineering disciplines. This course will complement other engineering design courses, such as capstone design. Students will learn how optimization can reduce product turnaround time, and to make decisions involving weight, stiffness, strength, performance, energy utilization, and other attributes. Pedagogy will focus on hands-on experience through computational problem-solving and graphical understanding. Technology classrooms and computer labs for instruction will be used. A by-product of this course is increased math and computer skills. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: MATH 220 and (MATH 230 or MATH 231) and (CMPSC 201 or CMPSC 200)
ME 445Microcomputer Interfacing for Mechanical Engineers4
Interfacing of electro-mechanical systems to microcomputers for data acquistion, data analysis and digital control. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: (ME 345 or ME 348) and seventh- semester standing
* * ME 468 * 3 Technical Elective Technical Elective 3 General Education Course (Integrative Studies) * Technical Elective 3 General Education Course (Exploration) General Education Course 3 General Education Course (Integrative Studies) (GHW) 16 Total Credits 133 * Course requires a grade of C or better for the major ‡ Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education # Course is an Entrance to Major requirement † Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement For General Education Course notations, please be sure to include three (3) credits of United States (US) Cultures and three (3) credits of International (IL) Cultures. Consult adviser for details. Credits The following courses are offered Fall Semester only: MATSE 259, 3 ME 320, ME 345, ME 349, ME 355, ME 448, ME 468. The following courses are offered Spring Semester only: EMCH 212, EMCH 213, ME 357, ME 367, ME 380, ME 410, ME 449, PHYS 214. Take (CHEM 111 & PHYS 214) or BIOL 141 or BIOL 161 or CHEM 112. For Technical Elective, these include for Fall Semester: ME 445, ME 470, 4 ME 495, STAT 401; for Spring Semester: KINES 488, ME 427, ME 461, ME 495; For Summer: ME 495. 18 University Requirements and General Education Notes: US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Credits Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International 3 Cultures). W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum 3 requirement. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge 2 Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number 17 used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS Credits and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better. 3 Career Paths 3 Because every industry values a mechanical engineer’s problem-solving capabilities, you’ll enjoy tremendous career flexibility in disciplines as 3 varied as research, manufacturing, product and systems design and testing, health care, energy, the military, transportation, and consumer products. A mechanical engineering education also is excellent preparation for technical management, business, law, or technical sales. 15
(GTE) Mechanical Engineering 3 Engineering Technical 3 Technical Elective (METE) Elective (ETE) General Education Course 1.5 † (GHW) 16.5 15 Total Credits 131 * Course requires a grade of C or better for the major ‡ Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education # Course is an Entrance to Major requirement † Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement University Requirements and General Education Notes: dits US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy 3 Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International 3 Cultures). W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
This course conducts investigations of one-dimensional, two- dimensional, and three-dimensional dynamics, kinematics and design integrated into the study of vehicle dynamics. Topics include body kinematics, steady state body dynamics, transient stability, tire forces, suspension, automatic control, and driver interaction. The emphasis is on the analysis of a vehicle as a complex system, recognizing how to abstract observed behaviors into appropriate mathematical models, how to decompose behaviors into subsystems, how to construct and perform numerical simulations, and how to design and analyze experiments to test models and simulations to gain insights into design goals and tradeoffs. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: ME 450
Interfacing of electro-mechanical hardware to microcomputers and microcontrollers for data acquisition, data analysis, and digital control. The course addresses the need for today's mechanical engineer to understand the architecture of engineering systems and not just the mechanical hardware. The course has a significant lab component in the form of weekly, two-hour labs. Examples of lab topics include the design and building of a complete autonomous vehicle including the drive system, steering, sensors, obstacle avoidance, and computer control.
This course covers the characterization and feedback control of linear time invariant (LTI) dynamic systems, classical feedback control theories will be emphasized. Basic concepts of analyzing, predicting and specifying the performance of dynamic systems, including transfer functions, dynamic response, block diagram, stability notions and sensitivity will be introduced. A thorough treatment of feedback controller design via Root-Locus method will be provided, which includes the design of lead/lag compensation and PID controller. Frequency domain controller design will also be introduced thoroughly, from the characterization of open-loop frequency response using Bode plot to the analysis of closed-loop frequency response. In this process, the notions of gain-phase relationship, Nyquist stability criterion, and stability margi will be discussed. Finally, the method of adding dynamic compensation to adjust the frequency response and improve the stability and performance of the system will be introduced. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 320 and (ME 450 or ME 357)
Students graduating with a M E major should take 7-8 credits from Group A; students graduating with an EE major should take 7 credits from group B; all other students should take 6-8 credits from both A and B.
This course is designed to equip mechanical engineering students with the essential skills to bridge the gap between theoretical machine- learning models and real-world mechanical engineering challenges. This course serves as an introduction to machine learning and its diverse applications in the field of mechanical engineering, emphasizing hands- on experience with a high-level programming language. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: CMPSC 200
This course is designed to approach and analyze fundamental problems in the design of advanced level machine components and systems. It integrates advanced concepts in fatigue, vibrations, mechanics of materials and tribology for component and system level reliability. The course emphasizes elements of power transmission through detailed discussion on kinematics and reliability-based design of cams, flywheels, transmission couplings and gear chains. Example cases involve single and multiple cylinder automotive engine system with analysis of dynamics and balancing, power transmission through both flexible and rigid elements as well as different kinds of differentials built of spur, helical, bevel and worm gears. Another thrust is the application of tribology on machine design with special focus on hydrostatic and hydrodynamic bearings. Through case studies drawn from design and failure from real life systems, the course develops knowledge and skills for translating design concepts from components to system level.
Computer modeling and fundamental analysis of solid, fluid, and heat flow problems using existing computer codes. E MCH (M E) 461 Finite n Elements in Engineering (3) This is an introductory course in the Finite Element Method. Through this course, students gain knowledge in finite element theory and problem modeling. The mathematical formulation of the method is presented and then applied to problems in elasticity and heat transfer. Projects are assigned to demonstrate the finite element method in simplified problems using hand- calculations and computer programs such as Matlab. The use of commercial FEA programs is introduced and problems of increased complexity are assigned to demonstrate their use in a computer lab. Finally, problems of realistic complexity are assigned such that students can practice solving, documenting and presenting their use of commercial FEA programs. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: (EMCH 213 or EMCH 210H or EMCH 210) and (CMPSC 201 or CMPSC 200) Cross-listed with: EMCH 461
s A laboratory-based introduction to manufacturing processes including material removal, forming, casting and joining for metals and non-metals. M E 465 Introduction to Manufacturing Laboratory (1)This laboratory course provides an integrated approach to Manufacturing Science and Engineering. The laboratory examines common techniques for fabricating parts; providing an introduction to several basic processes for creating both metallic and polymeric parts. As a part of this course, students will be exposed to compressive, tensile, sheet, bending, casting and powder metal processes. Using basic material science principles, students will examine concepts such as material flow, springback, and cold working. The course requires hands-on involvement by the students in the planning of experiments as well as data manipulation and analysis of results. The laboratory exercises are intended to provide students with a broad appreciation of the breadth of Manufacturing Science and Engineering. Students work in groups. Written reports and in-class exercises are the primary basis for grading. This course is a technical elective. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: ME 468
* ME 308 or 465 1 General Education Course 3 * 4XX Engineering Elective 3 General Education Course 3 * 4XX Engineering Elective 3 General Education Course 1.5 (GHW) 16 16.5 Total Credits 131 * Course requires a grade of C or better for the major ‡ Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education # Course is an Entrance to Major requirement † Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
Principles of metal working and introduction to current theories; analysis of deformation, joining, and metal removal processes. M E 469 Metallic Manufacturing Processes (3)In this integrated lecture/laboratory course students will learn a) metal deformations techniques such as: forging, rolling, extrusion and drawing, b) metal removal techniques for single, multi and infinite point cutting, and c) metal fastening techniques, including bolts, rivets and welds. As a part of the learning process, students will directly compare existing standards and theories to actual laboratory results. Students will learn how to assess the accuracy of both theoretical derivations and experimental procedures by first deriving theoretical equations in the classroom and then directly examining the ability of the equations to predict the given behavior by actually performing the manufacturing operation in the laboratory. Based on in-depth discussions regarding assumptions, approximations, and experimental error, students will assess the ability of the current state- of-the-art techniques to accurately predict the forces generated/required during various manufacturing metal working operations. In addition, students will derive their own theories by removing/improving some assumptions within the existing theories. For processes where multiple theories exist, students will compare and contrast the predictive abilities of the various techniques to those found through controlled laboratory experiments. Similar comparisons will also be made for processes where both engineering standards and theoretical techniques exist. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: ME 349 Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: ME 468
ME 470Analysis and Design in Vibration Engineering3
Application of Lagrange's equations to mechanical system modeling, multiple- degree-of-freedom systems, experimental and computer methods; some emphasis on design applications. In this course, students will learn basic techniques for modeling and analyzing linear multidegree- of-freedom (MDOF) mechanical systems, and will learn how to use these techniques for mechanical design. Students will learn to obtain equations of motion using energy methods (Lagrange's equations), with emphasis on the efficient formulation and reduction to the linear case. The basic theory of MDOF systems will be presented, including: eigenvalue problems; natural frequencies and normal modes; superposition and Undergraduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 4551 modal analysis; and frequency response. Numerical methods for solving static, dynamic and eigenvalue problems will be presented. Introductions to the theory of linear continuous systems and experimental methods of vibrations will be presented. A substantial portion of the course will be spent discussing design applications of the basic theory, such as: finite element numerical analysis and experimental modal analysis of beams and plates; vehicle suspension design; and vibration isolation and absorption. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: (EMCH 212 or EMCH 212H) and (ME 370 or ESC 407 or EMCH 407) Cross-listed with: EMCH 470
Design and analysis of mechanical linkages including kinematic synthesis and dynamic analysis. Linkages for a variety of applications are considered. M E 480 Mechanism Design and Analysis (3) The student who takes this course will develop a basic understanding of the analysis and synthesis of planar linkage mechanisms. Students will develop the ability to model real linkage mechanisms using kinematic diagrams, including identification of links and joints. They will also learn to use Gruebler's equation to calculate the mobility or number of degrees of freedom of linkages based on the kinematic diagram. Students will also become familiar with real mechanism applications in the context of mechanism synthesis, where they will learn to determine the required dimensions of a mechanism for a specific application. Students will apply these dimensional synthesis methods in a design project which includes building a simple linkage prototype. They will learn kinematic analysis methods, i.e., analysis of position, velocity, and acceleration of planar linkages. These methods consist of graphical, algebraic, and complex number approaches. Students will also learn to use commercial software packages, e.g. Working Model, to predict position, velocity, and acceleration of planar linkages, and will compare their predictions to those using analytical approaches. Finally, students will learn to do dynamic force analysis of planar linkages to predict joint forces and motor torques. They will use commercial software packages to predict joint forces and motor torques of planar linkages, and will compare their predictions to those using analytical approaches. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: (EMCH 212 or EMCH 212H) and (CMPSC 201 or CMPSC 200 or ESC 261) Cross-listed with: EMCH 480
ME 481Introduction to Computer-Aided Analysis of Machine Dynamics3
Techniques and formulations for computer based kinematic and dynamic analyses of machines. M E 481 Introduction to Computer-Aided Analysis of Machine Dynamics (3) This course addresses computer methods for kinematic and dynamic analyses of two-dimensional (2D) multi-body machines at the advanced undergraduate and introductory graduate level. The course introduces the formalism of kinematic mobility and topology to help students recognize constrained kinematic chains embedded in larger engineering systems. Classic kinematic and Newtonian dynamic methods are reformulated using modern matrix methods. The latter half of the course focuses on underlying algorithms and theory behind commercially available mechanism analysis software packages that employ differential-algebraic equation (DAE) solvers. Students program their own numerical integration methods for time domain simulation of forward dynamics of a simple system to reinforce
(GHW) 15.5 16.5 Total Credits 131-132 Undergraduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 961 * Course requires a grade of C or better for the major ‡ Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education # Course is an Entrance to Major requirement † Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement Students who did not take a 1-credit College of Engineering First-Year Seminar should verify completion of this requirement with ME adviser Science Elective Choices: CHEM 112, BIOL 141, BIOL 161, or CHEM 111 and PHYS 214 (3 credits total) Recommend ME 410 before or concurrent University Requirements and General Education Notes: US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures). W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better. All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits. College Notes: • Successful completion of MATH and EMCH courses before the 5th semester is important for future course sequencing. • EMCH 210 or EMCH 210H is not a direct substitute for EMCH 211 and EMCH 213 requirements and should not be taken for ME_BS • Information on Technical Elective requirements can be found at: https://www.me.psu.edu/students/undergraduate/curriculum- electives.aspx • General Education in ME_BS Curriculum: • Single Domain: 3 credits GS (ECON 102 or ECON 104), 3 credits GN (CHEM 110), 3 Credits GA, 3 Credits GH, 3 Credits GHW • Inter-Domain: 6 credits • Exploratory: 6 credits GN (PHYS 211 and PHYS 212), 3 credits any GA/GH/GS/GN/Inter-Domain or 12th credit level language • Students must take 3 credits of United State Cultures (US) and 3 credits of International Cultures (IL) (these can be captured in the
ME 491Bioengineering Applications of Mechanical Engineering3
Application of mechanical engineering knowledge in the context of life sciences. M E 491 Bioengineering Applications of Mechanical Engineering (3)The primary objective of this course is to teach students how to apply mechanical engineering knowledge in the context of life sciences. Fundamental mechanical engineering knowledge such as solid mechanics, fluid mechanics and system dynamics will be reviewed first. Then, different topics in bioengineering, such as motion biomechanics, physiological fluid mechanics, modeling of physiological systems, and rehabilitation engineering will be discussed. Throughout the semester, students also work in groups to solve several simplified real-life bioengineering projects. Students will be evaluated through these projects plus a final project presentation, an application presentation and several homework assignments. This course is a technical elective in the ME BD program and allows students who have completed their third-year to learn the application of mechanical engineering knowledge in the life science context. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: EE 211 and ME 320 and ME 357 and EMCH 213 and ME 349 or permission of program
The goal of this course is to prepare mechanical engineering Schreyer honors scholars for their final honors thesis. The course helps students identify a thesis supervisor if the student has not already found a thesis supervisor and project. The main body of the course focuses on writing the literature review. Identifying different types of literature and their uses, finding appropriate literature online and on databases, and writing about the literature are all covered extensively. Students are given detailed feedback on outlines and drafts of their literature review throughout the semester, resulting in a final literature review for their honors thesis at the end. In addition to the literature review, two presentations - one elevator pitch and one final presentation - are required to practice oral communication of research topics. Finally, the topics of research ethics, research in teams, and career planning are discussed throughout the course to prepare students for future research and career opportunities. Class meets once per week and class times are highly interactive, with activities to practice the skills learned in the course with the help of peers and faculty. The grade is comprised of several assignments, including pre-class assignments, in-class assignments, and thesis-related assignments.
/Maximum of 9 Students must have approval of a thesis adviser before scheduling this course. M E 494H Senior Thesis (1-9) All Schreyer Scholars are required to complete an undergraduate honors thesis. This work represents the culmination of a student's honors experience. Through the thesis, the student demonstrates a command of relevant scholastic work and a personal contribution to that scholarship.The thesis project can take many forms - from laboratory experiments all the way to artistic creations. The thesis document captures the relevant background, methods and techniques, as well as describing the details of the completion of the individual project. Two Penn State faculty members judge the merits of this Scholar's honors thesis, the student's self- selected thesis supervisor and the department-selected honors adviser in the student's area of honors.
/Maximum of 18 Supervised off-campus, nongroup instruction including field experiences, practica, or internships. Written and oral critique of activity required. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: Prior approval of proposed assignment by instructor
/Maximum of 18 Creative projects, including nonthesis research, which are supervised on an individual basis and which fall outside the scope of formal courses.
Honors research that fulfills Shreyer's Honor College requirements. This research will serve as a basis for my honors thesis. Research regarding the development and manufacturing of micro fuel cells. Course will be graded on a scale similar to a traditional class.
Pure and applied thermodynamics including its application to advanced engineering problems; collateral reading and discussion of the classical works on the subject.
This course aims to provide an overview of atomistic-scale methods - in particular, ab-initio based methods like Density Functional Theory and empirical force field methods - to an engineering audience. Due to the increasing availability of computers, atomistic-scale simulation methods are becoming increasingly relevant to engineers, as they can provide key thermodynamic and material properties necessary for the design and analysis of engineering material performance. The main aim of the course is to encourage students to integrate atomistic-scale concepts in their current research. As such, there is a strong emphasis on hands- on experience with various software codes, including commercial codes and academic codes. The students learn the basic concepts of quantum mechanics, statistical thermodynamics, crystallography, physics and chemistry as they relate to ab initio and empirical force field methods and their integration in energy minimization, molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo methods. These concepts are discussed on a conceptual level, enabling students to understand their application range and validity. Furthermore, we dedicate a significant amount of class time to engineer- relevant applications of these force engines and methods. Cross-listed with: CHE 505
ME 507Advanced Gas Turbine System and Component Design3
Covers fundamental design/analysis theory and modern developments in gas turbine engines used for aircraft propulsion and power generation. Both system-level and component-level considerations will be discussed. Modern computational tools in gas turbine design will be employed on a limited basis to explore system integration effects as well as component- level physics and bring awareness to their usefulness and limitations. Recommended Preparation: This course will require some foundational knowledge in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer, as well as ability to use a programming language.
Second semester of core sequence in fluid mechanics; continuation of boundary layers, stability, transition, turbulence, turbulent boundary layers, turbulence models.
ME 524Turbulence and Applications to CFD: DNS and LES3
First of two courses: Scalings, decompositions, turbulence equations; scale representations, Direct and Large-Eddy Simulation modeling; pseudo-spectral methods; 3 computer projects. Cross-listed with: AERSP 524
Theoretical formulations and methods of solution of engineering problems and physical/chemical processes in various propulsion systems. ME 530 Fundamentals of Combustion (3) This course is devoted to the fundamentals of chemically reactive flow systems with application to modern jet, rocket, air-breathing engines, and other ; power generation systems. Experimental and theoretical foundations of steady-state reactions of homogeneous gas mixtures; application of mass and heat diffusion concepts to premixed and non-premixed gaseous flames, liquid-fuel droplet combustion; detonation waves, deflagration-to-detonation transition processes; ignition of gaseous mixtures. Methods for evaluation of thermal and transport properties of gases and liquids will also be discussed. While there are no prerequisites for ME 531, this course serves as a prerequisite for ME 532 (Turbulent and Two-Phase Combustion). The course will: 1) help students acquire a better understanding of the fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reaction processes in combustion systems by presenting a systematic description of various analyses developed for describing the fundamental processes involved in chemically reacting flow systems; 2) demonstrate the usefulness of basic principles by performing analyses and obtaining solutions for various combustion problems encountered in engineering so that individuals can utilize them to solve "real-world" problems. 3) provide graduate students with the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities to absorb new materials and to present project results to the class. It is anticipated that, upon completion of this course, students will be able to formulate models for simulating ignition and combustion problems in laminar flow conditions, solve certain types of models, and design laboratory experiments for some diagnostic measurements. Students will be evaluated on the basis of class participation (5%), homework (20%), quizzes (5%), projects (25%), a mid- semester examination (20%) and a final examination (25%). ME 531 will be offered each spring with an anticipated enrollment of 12 students; ME 532 will be offered each fall with an anticipated enrollment of 12.
An introduction to kinetic theory, statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, atomic and molecular structure, chemical thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics of gases. Cross-listed with: AERSP 535
This course covers ordinary and partial differential equations, linear algebra, numerical methods, special functions, vector calculus, Fourier methods, and complex analysis. These methods will prepare the student for a wide breadth of Mechanical Engineering research and applications in the sub-disciplines of - fluid and thermal sciences, - mechanical sciences, - dynamics, sensors and controls, - transportation systems, - design and manufacturing, - energy systems, and - biomedicine. After successfully completing this course, students will be able to synthesize important elements of Applied Mathematics to research endeavors in Mechanical Engineering. Broadly, they will be able to solve Engineering Mathematics problems using ordinary and partial differential equation methods, vector calculus, linear algebra, numerical methods, spectral methods, special functions, integral transform methods, symbolic mathematics, and complex analysis. The breadth and depth of coverage of ME 544 provides the student with the theoretical Graduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 1277 framework to synthesize numerous relevant advanced mathematics topics in their research and future scholarly and career activities in Mechanical Engineering. Six of the nine modules in 544 include brief review content introduced at the undergraduate level. 544 significantly extends the breadth and depth of these treatments. Topics not treated at the undergraduate level are incorporated in each module. Applications specific to research activities within Mechanical Engineering are emphasized in lecture examples and assignments.
This class will facilitate the hands-on investigation of mechatronic systems using a problem-based approach, with specific focus on system-level implementations. M E 545 Mechatronics (3) This class will facilitate hands-on investigation and learning of mechatronic systems using a problem-based approach. The course consists of lectures, lab activities, and major projects that train students to develop system-level implementations of mechatronics. This course complements and builds on the existing undergraduate-level microcomputer interfacing course, which presents model-free design of single-processor, single-sensor, single-task, and/or single actuator mechatronic systems. This course focuses on model-based design of multi-processor, multi-sensor, multi- actuator, and multi-tasking mechatronic systems. Students are expected to be familiar with systems and signals analysis including Laplace transforms, Eigenvalues, Bode plots, stability margins, basic feedback loop performance and stability analysis, etc. Students should have a firm understanding of electrical circuits and structured programming. Nearly all assignments will require the use of MATLAB and/or some C-style programming.
Product families, product platforms, mass customization, product variety, modularity, commonality, robust design, product architectures. I E (M E) 546 Designing Products Families (3) Designing Product Families is a graduate-level course generally offered in the spring. It is designed for students interested in product realization, engineering design, and manufacturing to gain an understanding of mass customization and methods for designing families of products based on modular and scalable product platforms. The transition from craft production to mass production to mass customization will be covered in this course along with methods and tools for designing robust, modular, and scalable product platforms. Platform leveraging strategies and commonality metrics will be investigated through product dissection activities, which will also be integrated with lectures on evaluating manufacturing and assembly. Several industry case studies will also be discussed in the course to examine the implications of producing a variety of products and strategies for effective mass customization and product postponement.Students interested in taking this course should be familiar with product design and manufacturing.Students are evaluated through individual and group homework assignments, in-class participation and activities, and a group project report and presentation. Cross-listed with: IE 546
Statistics, optimization, and robust design methodologies to design products and environments that are robust to variability in users. Cross-listed with: EDSGN 547
ME 550Foundations of Engineering Systems Analysis3
Analytical methods are developed using the vector space approach for solving control and estimation problems; examples from different engineering applications. E E (M E) 550 Foundations of Engineering Systems Analysis (3) This 3-credit course is offered at the first-year graduate level and provides a systems-theoretic background for more advanced graduate courses in the disciplines of engineering and science. The course uses the vector space approach to develop the analytical foundations for solutions of science and engineering problems in diverse application areas such as optimal control, estimation, and signal processing. First, the theoretical foundation of vector spaces, function spaces, and Hilbert spaces are developed. Linear transformations are then introduced, followed by the Reisz-Frechet theorem and Hahn- Banach theorem, with applications to optimization problems. Spectral analysis is then covered. Finally, diverse applications of these various techniques are presented throughout this course to illustrate the wide range of engineering problems that can be solved using the vector space approach. Cross-listed with: EE 550
High-power energy storage technologies including advanced batteries, ultracapacitors, and flywheels. E SC (M E) 551 High Power Energy Storage (3) The course focuses on high-power, in-vehicle energy storage technologies used in hybrid electric vehicles, including advanced batteries, fuel cells, ultracapacitors, and flywheels. An interdisciplinary approach with mechanical, materials, electrical, and chemistry-based concepts provides the foundation to understand the operation and application of these energy storage devices. The course provides a synopsis of hybrid electric and fuel cell vehicle design, control, and simulation to determine the effect of energy storage components on performance and fuel efficiency. Cross-listed with: ESC 551
This course provides an overview of the fundamental principles and methods of optimal control, dynamic programming, and extremum- seeking control, with a focus on the application of these tools to a variet of problems in the energy generation, storage, and management domain. Fundamental topics covered include bond graph modeling of energetic systems, constrained and unconstrained static optimization, the Karush- Kuhn-Tucker conditions, extremum-seeking control, the Bellman principle of optimality, deterministic dynamic programming, Markov chains, stochastic dynamic programming, the Bolza optimal control problem, the Pontryagin maximum principle, the Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation, linear quadratic regulation, bang-bang control, and pseudo-spectral optimal control. Applications examined include impedance matching in photovoltaics and wind power plants, fuel-minimizing optimal vehicle path planning, optimal Lithium-ion battery charging/discharging, optimal power management in hybrid electric and hybrid hydraulic vehicles, and optimal building energy management. The course serves as a broad overview of fundamental topics covered in more depth in other classes on dynamic programming, adaptive control, and optimal control. Equal emphasis is placed on the tools and methods of optimal control theory and their practical application to optimal energy management problems. The course is intended for graduate students in engineering interested in energy management research, and already possessing a basic familiarity with energy systems and dynamic system modeling.
Advanced problems and techniques in the design of automatic control systems with emphasis on stability, controller design, and optimum performance. M E 555 Linear System Theory and Control (3) This course examines problems and techniques in the analysis and design of linear systems. The course assumes a fundamental background in dynamic system modeling and frequency-domain SISO control input analysis and design. Topics include: vectors and vector spaces; Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors; the Cayley-Hamilton theorem; Jordan canonical forms; internal and BIBO stability; Lyapunov stability analysis; observability and controllability; similarity transformations, state-space realization, and observer/controller canonical forms; pole placement; elementary observer and state-feedback controller design; the separation principle; Kalman filtering; and linear quadratic regulation.
Design of nonlinear automatic control systems; phase-plane methods; describing functions; optimum switched systems; Liapunov stability; special topics in stability. Cross-listed with: EE 587
Introduction to continuum mechanics, variational methods, and finite element formulations; application to bars, beams, cylinders, disks, and plates. E MCH (M E 560) 500 Solid Mechanics (3) This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and basic methods used in solid mechanics. Using indicial notation and integral formulations provides a foundation for more advanced study in continuum mechanics (E MCH 540) and finite element analysis (E MCH 560) specifically and in mechanics in general. The materials behavior is restricted to linear elastic and the emphasis is on stress analysis. Students are expected to have an understanding of elementary mechanics of materials (such as E MCH 013).The course objectives are to: 1) provide students with a firm foundation in solid mechanics. 2) introduce continuum mechanics concepts, variational methods, and the formulation used in finite element analysis. 3) enable students to formulate and solve the boundary value problems commonly encountered in the analysis of structures.The study of solid mechanics starts with the definition of stress and strain and how the two are related by material law. Field equations that relate strain to displacement, ensure a single valued displacement field, and the balance momentum are formulated. These are partial differential equations that can only be solved subject to known boundary and initial conditions. The field equations and boundary conditions comprise a boundary value problem that is usually difficult to solve exactly. Variational methods are used to bound or approximate the solution. The finite element method employs variational methods to formulate generic elements and is a computational tool for solving boundary value problems for complex geometries. Cross-listed with: EMCH 500
ME 564Elastic and Dynamic Stability of Structures3
An introduction to the concept and analysis methods of structural stability; structures under static/dynamic loading and high speed conditions. understanding of mechanical behavior of materials to follow the equations in this course, and basic concepts of system stability to expand them to elastic structures
Complete a minimum of 8 credits of electives in 400 and/or 500 level 8 courses. A listing of approved courses is maintained by the program. Graduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 63 Complete one credit of colloquium preferably in the first two semesters in the program. The following courses are offered to meet this requirement:
ME 577Stochastic Systems for Science and Engineering3
The course develops the theory of stochastic processes and linear and nonlinear stochastic differential equations for applications to science an engineering. Cross-listed with: MATH 577
Theory and physical interpretation of continuous and discrete wavelet transforms for applications in different engineering disciplines. Cross-listed with: MATH 578
This course addresses kinematic and dynamic analyses of planar and spatial constrained multibody systems. The first half addresses planar methods while the second half is devoted to extensions for spatial analyses. Kinematic mobility and topology are introduced to help students recognize joint constraints within kinematic chains embedded in larger systems. Joint constraint models using matrix methods are formulated to describe kinematically driven chains. Systemic differential- algebraic equations are then derived that can be used for both inverse dynamics and forward dynamic time integration. Numerical integration methods for time domain simulation are also discussed. Overall goals are for students to be able to identify forward versus inverse dynamic problems; program their own planar and spatial kinematic models; and simulate forward dynamics. Recommended Preparations: Advanced mathematical or computational experience
Students take 9 credits in one of the following concentrations. 9 A list of courses that will count towards these concentrations is maintained by the program office.
/Maximum of 9 Creative projects, including nonthesis research, which are supervised on an individual basis and which fall outside the scope of formal courses.
