W81 Advanced Computer Architecture with VHDL. This course explores advanced computer architecture techniques including superscalar machines, Very Long Instruction Word (VLIW) scheduling, Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing (EPIC) architectures, predicated execution, interrupts in a pipelined machine, and compiler optimizations for specific hardware platforms. Hardware designs are examined through the use of VHDL (VHSIC Hardware Description Language). The course examines the VHDL design methodology and compares the behavioral, dataflow, and structural architecture description styles. Syntax constructs for describing sequential and concurrent modules are studied in detail. Verification techniques are also covered. Students design a variety of circuits and modules using sophisticated CAD tools, implement microprocessor subsystems and microprocessor interface circuits in the lab, and demonstrate their understanding of VHDL design principles. Evaluation is based on homework assignments, class participation, lab work, and design projects. Prerequisite: Engineering 325 or permission of the instructor. S. VanderLeest.

W82 Finite-Element Analysis. The finite-element method is a design and analysis tool widely used in many areas of engineering. In this course students consider the historical development, the fundamental principles, and the various applications of this method in the areas of structural mechanics and heat transfer. Exercises are assigned to orient the student to available general-purpose software. There is an in-depth focus on several design projects. Evaluation is based on the exercises, design-project reports, and a final presentation. Prerequisite: Engineering 305 or permission of the instructor. L. Van Poolen.

W83 Water and Wastewater Treatment Design. This course addresses the application and theory of chemical, physical, and biological processes related to treatment systems. The course focuses on design of potable water treatment and wastewater treatment systems. Problems considered include unit process design for the following potable water treatment plant components: screening, coagulation, mixing, flocculation, chemical softening, filtration, disinfection, ion exchange, adsorption, membrane filtration, and residuals handling. Additional coverage includes unit process design for wastewater treatment components including: activated sludge, trickling filters, membrane bioreactors, aeration, clarification, and solids handling and stabilization. Evaluation is based on homework assignments and a final exam. Prerequisites: Engineering 209 and senior standing or permission of the instructor. D. Wunder.

W84 Design with an Eye to the Environment. Much effort has been invested in designing solutions to environmental problems that were created by the rise of the industrial age with its intensified use of energy and materials, the surge in world population, the concentration of people in cities, and the incomplete understanding of the integration of the earth’s systems. This course first develops a basic understanding of current environmental issues and the underlying science, technology, social, and political knowledge needed to frame these issues for the future. The course then surveys current design approaches, first, to coping with the backlog of environmental problems and, next, to achieve a world that is sustainable. The course concludes with the identification of sustainable approaches and how they may develop into the future. Students from various disciplines have an opportunity to focus on deploying these approaches—using the various academic concentrations as a foundation—by developing and presenting a design project at the end of the course that challenges the class to better understand the cost and benefits of environmentally conscious designs. Evaluation is based on assignments, class participation, and the design project report and presentation. Prerequisite: senior standing or permission of the instructor. NOTE: This is the same course as IDIS W23. A. Sykes.

W85 Advanced Topics in Chemical Engineering Design. This course addresses essential advanced topics that build on the foundational concepts from several earlier chemical engineering courses. Design topics covered include: mass transfer and staging operations, radiation heat transfer, nonelementary kinetics, corrosion, and materials of construction. In addition, fundamental concepts of environmental, health, and safety issues for design are presented. Evaluation is based on daily homework and a final exam. Prerequisites: Engineering 330, 331, 335, and senior standing. J. Van Antwerp, J. VanAntwerp.

IDIS W12 The South African Miracle. M. Heun, T. Kuperus.

IDIS W13 Dutch Landscapes: Society, Technology, and Environment. H. Aay, R. Hoeksema.