This project funds a multidisciplinary, applications-oriented laboratory course providing hands-on experience in the acquisition and analysis of dynamic data. Although the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Departments have been providing courses in noise control, dynamic systems analysis, vibrations, electronic signals and systems, and communications, their laboratories are not sufficiently equipped to demonstrate and reinforce the principles taught in these courses and students have had little or no exposure to industrial applications of dynamic data acquisition and analysis. This new lab course remedies these deficiencies, strengthens existing curricular strands, and provides students with the training necessary to pursue more sophisticated projects in their Capstone design courses. The new course initially is divided into five modules, each centered around specific applications of signal analysis such as speech encoding and enhancement, machinery sound power, and machine condition monitoring/diagnostics. The modules can be modified and more modules added as technology and industrial needs change. Representatives from industry are being asked to assess the contents and methods of the course. The course directly affects 70 - 100 engineering students a year. A laboratory manual with instructor's supplement is also being developed.
