ABET Review
We feel this mini-project satisfies the following ABET goals:
[1]. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
This goal was satisfied in the way that we had to analyze a real world problem in the Abbott Power Plant of there being flow disturbances (hissing sound), analyze the drawings for the power plant and then apply the principles of fluid mechanics such as the general energy equation and discuss whether the flow disturbance was being caused due to cavitation or air entrainment. Furthermore, this project also led to including factors such as head losses in our calculations which in turn led to team collaboration, especially in the area of prevention of the entrained air within the pipe.
[2]. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
This goal was satisfied since we had to provide design recommendations to prevent the entrained air and also to remedy the cavitation issue. Since this is a facility in which people work, special emphasis was put on the safety and welfare as well as economic factors when taking into account any potential design changes.
[3]. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
We have edited and designed this eportfolio in the form of a wix website. The reason for doing that is that our research on this particular issue of air entrainment/cavitation can be widely accessible to a wide range of audiences. As a result, an effort has also been made to make the website simplified, yet the site also includes detailed calculations and statement of assumptions we would be making in investigating the issue of air entrainment/cavitation within the pipe. This eportfolio also makes it more interactive for the audience to learn more about the issue via the use of buttons and images, in addition to helping us as a team, improve on our web design skills.
[5]. An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
This goal was met since in the entire brainstorming phase of this mini-project we analysed the problem statement, went through the clues provided in the guidelines together and split up the work between the four of us. Furthermore, we also heard and documented every members’ opinions and made a goal to complete our sections by a certain date, such that the other members had time to go over the sections and offer any feedback/guidance. Through a group platform, we were also able to communicate remotely and when any members were having any difficulties the other members were able to help that member collectively.