The University of Michigan College of Engineering is providing university-owned equipment and unlimited access for students and faculty in a Computer-Aided Engineering Network (CAEN). The rationale for and operation of the CAEN are discussed. (JN)

Examines shortcomings that are not being fully recognized and addressed. For example, computerization tends to increase analytical precision at the sacrifice of accuracy. In addition, the computer has begun to diminish the art while emphasizing the scienctific elements of design. Possible solutions to these and other shortcomings are offered. (JN)

Describes the design and implementation of a simple robot manipulator. The manipulator has three degrees of freedom and is controlled by a general purpose microcomputer. The basis for the manipulator (which costs under $100) is a simple working model of a crane. (Author/JN)

Degrees of freedom analysis, the nature of Sorel's equations and sparsity patterns, equation-tearing strategies, simple and complex separation operations, and the complete tearing method are among the topic areas addressed in this discussion of equilibrium-stage operations, with and without computer applications. (JN)

Examines changes needed in research and education to bring the nation into the new age of computer-integrated manufacturing. Topics addressed include: convergence of research; continuum of research; computer-integrated manufacturing; and need for a science of manufacturing. Also notes steps taken by the National Science Foundation to help solve…

Summarizes the approaches to computer requirements at: (1) Clarkson University; (2) Drexel University; (3) Stevens Institute; and (4) Virginia Tech. Software, hardware, courses, finances, faculty development, and other areas are addressed when applicable. (JN)

This article: (1) outlines the freshman engineering program at Iowa State University; (2) describes recently installed computer facilities; and (3) reviews how course content is changed due to the computer being used as an effective learning tool. (JN)

A Heath/Zenith H/Z-90 personal workstation for a PRIME 550 host computer has been developed. The personal computer-based workstation has local editing capability with automatic upload and download of PRIME files, supports a local printer, and provides backup of files on local floppy disk. (Author)

Describes a relatively inexpensive system which allows students in a digital control course hands-on experience in the implementation of control algorithms on a variety of processes. The system uses two computers, one for real time simulation of the process and the other for implementation of the digital control algorithms. (JN)

An Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory (AML) has been established at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). AML courses, course objectives, instructional strategies, student experiences in design and manufacturing, and AML equipment are discussed. Overall recommendations based on student and instructor experiences are also presented. (JN)

Describes an inexpensive, simple, microprocessor-based instrument which quickly and accurately measures and displays the indicated power and the pressure-volume indicator diagram of a reciprocating compressor or internal combustion engine. Hardware requirements, software considerations, and the instrument's educational value are discussed. (JN)

Describes a system (Apple II microcomputer interfaced to flexible, custom-designed digital hardware) which can provide: (1) Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) computation on real-time data with a video display of spectrum; (2) frequency synthesis experiments using the inverse FFT; and (3) real-time digital filtering experiments. (JN)

This paper describes the design and construction of a local network of microcomputers at the Electrical Computer Engineering Department at Florida Institute of Technology. The design criteria for such a network and the possible applications are discussed. (JN)

Describes a computer communication course (and its associated laboratory) developed for electrical engineering students at the University of Florida. The course teaches seniors and graduate students the theoretical limits that affect the implementation of serial digital communications and surveys the interface standards, data link protocols, and…

Describes the advantages and features of computer-assisted laboratory stations for use in a chemical engineering program. Also describes a typical experiment at such a station: determining the response times of a solid state humidity sensor at various humidity conditions and developing an empirical model for the sensor. (JN)