A New Approach to Teaching Undergraduate Thermal/Fluid Sciences—Courses in Applied Computational Fluid Dynamics and Compressible Flow

Abstract

A new approach is taken in teaching elective courses in thermal/fluid sciences (TFS) specialities primarily to undergraduate students in mechanical, aerospace, and chemical engineering disciplines by incorporating new and advanced technology into the curriculum. Two courses are designed at mezzanine level for undergraduate and graduate students that utilize computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental methods. Techniques to enable undergraduates to learn advanced course materials are discussed. A course in Applied Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is designed that combines the basic concepts in algorithmic and numerical aspects of CFD with experimental verification and validation. The course provides a mathematical and physical understanding of the behaviour of the conservation equations for different flow regimes through lectures, projects and hands-on experience. Another course in modern compressible flow will enable students to utilize the CFD technology and measurement methods to find accurate solutions to a wide range and complex problems in gas dynamics. Students develop the capability to utilize this new and growing technology in their industrial career after graduation.