An investigation of didactic energy transfer systems

Abstract

New experiments were developed for the freshmen seminar Physics of Energy. The class covers electricity generation and dissipation, and provides experience in analysis and design of electrical and mechanical engineering systems. There was interest in developing a series of new laboratory experiments that would demonstrate methods of energy conversion to students. The experiments are focused on the topic of energy conversion and they introduce topics from electromagnetism to mechanical engineering. The new systems developed include a DC motor kit for learning about motor design and use, a linear synchronous motor for learning about electromagnetism, classical mechanics and ballistics, and an end to end power plant energy conversion laboratory to introduce the topics of heat transfer and process efficiencies.