Case Studies and Information Technology in Civil Engineering Learning

A multimedia-supported case study is presented that deals with a large-scale civil engineering project. This case study is based on the complete analysis, design, and construction files of the developer of the project. The multimedia instructional tool has integrated different disciplines and input from the project manager, senior students, and instructors of different disciplines. This multimedia tool includes hypertext links to modular and stratified information. Information is made available through the user's control in a logical, interactive, deductive, and disciplinary way that follows the flow of a civil engineering project. Text, graphics, and videos are included. The multimedia tool presents a teaching tool that enables senior class civil engineering students to learn about planning, design, and construction phases of a civil engineering project, as well as their integration. The in-class use of the tool and project discussions help the students to relate better their previous academic knowledge to “real-life” problems, enhance their creativity, and increase the level of retention of the new knowledge acquired. Future enhancements and learning possibilities are discussed with the use of additional capabilities of information technology. The multimedia application developed has been used in an academic environment; however, with some modifications, it could be used to improve the “learning curve” of new employees in a company environment.     

Modeling of the NO x trap and experimental validation using ultra-fast NO x analyzers

The present paper employs and validates a NO _x trap model which attempts an optimum compromise between complexity and predictive accuracy. It is shown that using the same set of kinetic data, the model is able to predict the storage rates and the maximum storage amounts as function of temperature. Moreover, the model predicts with reasonable accuracy the NO breakthrough during rich-mode regeneration and the spontaneous/thermal NO₂ release when the temperature is increased in a saturated catalyst. The experimental findings highlight the importance of transient O₂ adsorption/desorption phenomena which are incorporated in the model. The use of ultra-fast responding NO/NO _x analyzers was necessary for the study and modeling of the transient operation following inlet composition switches.     

2D simulation of the regeneration performance of a catalysed DPF for heavy-duty applications

The objective of this work is to study the regeneration performance of a heavy-duty DPF application. The simulation of the local temperatures and pressure drop during the regeneration could be validated with experimental data, indicating the need for a 2D model approach to describe this particular catalysed DPF configuration. Furthermore, the model was applied to illustrate the axial and radial regeneration phenomena focusing on soot and temperature distribution.