MAE 224 Thermo Lab Project

Theme 1: Research using Calorimeter

Theme 2: Design of Solar Cooker

Reimbursement Instructions

Project learning objectives:

• To formulate a research question on energy content (Theme 1) or design of a solar cooker (Theme 2)
• To demonstrate understanding of a thermodynamic principle. Perform thermodynamic calculations/analyses to supplement experiments.
• To implement the design and experiment, make measurements, work as a team
• To report on your project and findings (technical report, poster presentation)

Part 1 – Proposal (Friday October 30)

Choose one of the two themes above.

1. For calorimeter: Brainstorm some research questions you can study using the calorimeter. Select one idea. Determine how you will answer this question, including the test plan, materials needed, and budget estimate.

2. For solar cooker: Brainstorm some ideas for a solar cooker. Select one concept that you will design. Determine what you will make, how you will make it, how you will test it, materials needed, and budget estimate.

Complete the proposal worksheet and upload one proposal for the lab group. Target funding: $25 per person.

Part 2 – Project execution

Proposals will be reviewed and you will receive feedback. Once the proposal is approved, you will work on this project during lab hours or after hours for the rest of the semester. There will be no additional labs required for the duration of the project.

Keep a record book (paper or electronic record) with notes, to do lists, sketches, and your work on the project. This is helpful in organizing your ideas and your team.

Part 3 – Deliverables

• Proposal (due October 30)

• Poster presentation evaluated by panel of judges (Monday November 23 @ 12:30 pm)

• Group Report (Dean’s Date: Dec 15)