Courses

Wave energy converters, offshore wind turbines, liquified natural gas (LNG) vessels, and autonomous underwater vehicles are some examples of offshore systems that are affected by ocean waves. This course presents the analytical framework to analyze the interactions these types of systems and ambient ocean waves. We begin by discussing surface wave theory and properties of regular surface waves and random ocean waves. We then discuss the linearized theory of floating body dynamics along with kinematic and dynamic free surface conditions and body boundary conditions that arise in the ocean setting. We consider simple harmonic motions and both diffraction and radiation problems of waves. We derive key hydrodynamic coefficients of offshore systems such as added mass, damping, and stiffness. Finally, we discuss ship seakeeping in regular and random waves. Throughout the course, examples and homework problems are drawn from real-world applications such as offshore wind turbines.

This course presents a rigorous, quantitative multidisciplinary design methodology that incorporates the creative side of the design process. Through a topic of your choice, learn how to use multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) to create advanced and complex engineering systems that must be competitive in performance and life-cycle value. Multidisciplinary design aspects appear frequently during the conceptual and preliminary design of complex new systems and products, where different disciplines (e.g. structures, aerodynamics, controls, optics, costing, manufacturing, environmental science, marketing, etc.) have to be tightly coupled in order to arrive at a competitive solution. This course is designed to be fundamentally different from most traditional university optimization courses which focus mainly on the mathematics and algorithms for search. Focus will be equally strong on all three aspects of the problem: (i) the multidisciplinary character of engineering systems, (ii) design of these complex systems, and (iii) tools for optimization. Students will demonstrate mastery of the subject by working in small teams on a term project to apply the multidisciplinary design optimization principles to design and optimize an engineering system of their choice.

Provides a review of the principles, methods and tools of technology management for organizations and technologically-enabled systems including technology forecasting, scouting, roadmapping, strategic planning, R&D project execution, intellectual property management, knowledge management, partnering and acquisition, technology transfer, innovation management, and financial technology valuation. Topics explain the underlying theory and empirical evidence for technology evolution over time and contain a rich set of examples and practical exercises from aerospace and other domains, such as transportation, energy, communications, agriculture, and medicine. Special topics include Moore’s law, S-curves, the singularity and fundamental limits to technology. Students develop a comprehensive technology roadmap on a topic of their own choice.