Abstract
It includes the purpose why students get into this field, what attracts them about this field. The advantages and disadvantages and how do the engineers get in employ.

From the Paper
"The Wright Brothers chose to focus on the invention of the airplane despite the belief that heavier-than-air crafts would never be able to fly."

Tags:brothers, wright, fly, air, travel

Abstract
This paper introduces the book, "Invention by Design" by Henry Petroski, published in Cambridge, MA, by the Harvard University Press in 1996. Specifically, it discusses what in the book is relevant to the mechanical engineering program, the author's main points, and whether these points are valid or invalid. It looks at how Henry Petroski's book takes engineering to a level that just about anyone can understand and makes it interesting even to the layperson. This book is not only an excellent introduction to the many facets of engineering; it is also a fascinating look into engineering by example, from the simple paper clip to the complicated Boeing 777 aircraft. It also shows how it is a fascinating look into what makes good engineering and what engineers actually do.

From the Paper
"Another critical issue in the book is how the case studies are presented. Each study begins with a bit of history, and then moves into the critical issues involved in the design and engineering of the object, such as the sewers of Paris as a precursor to the evolution of water quality engineering. Had the case studies taken a different approach, the book might not have met its goal of "making sense of many of the interrelated aspects of engineering," but because of these critical inclusions, the book not only meets, but exceeds its goals. It is clear that engineering is a vital force in the modern world, and that just about every action the engineer attempts can be critical in some form or another."

Tags:mechanical, engineers, aviation, structural

Abstract
This paper explains that "green" cars are vehicles that drive just like any other vehicle, except they are at least 90% cleaner-burning than the standard vehicle on the road, thereby emitting a lower amount of pollutants into the air. The author points out that the most popular models, which are mass-produced on the market right now, are called 'hybrids' because these vehicles have hybrid motors that use a mix of a gasoline engine and electric motor with a large battery that keeps energy flowing to the electric motor with no need to "plug" it in to recharge; when the cars get to "cruising" speed, they switch to the electric motor, letting it do most of the work. The paper stresses the financial benefits, which add to the environmental and health reasons to buying a "green" car; the actual purchase price does not vary too much from the regular gas-burning model, and the savings annually in gas can be tremendous. Tables.

Table of Contents
Introduction
The Current Quality of the Air We Breathe
Health Consequences of the Deteriorating Environment
Explaining the Need
Future Predictions of our Environmental Destruction
Identifying Those at Risk
"Green" Cars
What They Are
How These Vehicles Can Help "Clear the Air"
Financial Benefits from These Vehicles
Where Can They Be Found
Different Makes and Models Available
Concept Cars on the Way
Other Solutions

From the Paper
"While companies like Honda and Toyota are more aggressively bringing hybrids to market, GM decided last year to focus its most advanced hybrid technology on its largest, least-fuel-efficient, high-volume vehicles models. It plans for them to reach showrooms in 2007. The Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrids have been rated at averaging 60 miles per gallon, which has captured the attention of many producers, designers, engineers and consumers. This is encouraging because automakers are taking notice of the problems with our environment and actually coming up with ways to help fight for the cause."

Tags:battery, pollutants, hybrids, toyota, honda

Abstract
This paper looks at the different factors that need to be addressed when designing hand-held power tools. The author argues that when ergonomic factors are Incorporated into their design, there are less instances of injury, less sick days, and production is increased as a result.

From the paper:

"A well-designed tool can provide a number of important advantages that can be immediately noticeable. Ergonomically designed hand-tools contribute to the prevention of injuries which will then increase productivity on a continuous basis, improve the quality of the products produced, and reduce the absenteeism in a company for health related causes. Properly controlling the ergonomic factors such as the physical loads a person exerts (through the design of the handle and trigger), vibrations, and noise of the hand tool will decrease the chances of an injury occurring on the job."

Tags:ergonomics, hand, held, power, tools, workplace, injury, design, production

Abstract
This paper describes, compares and contrasts manual and automatic transmissions, defending the thesis that manuals are better than automatics in several aspects including efficiency, expense and pleasure. The paper argues that manual transmission is better than automatic because it is more pleasant to drive, giving one full control of the vehicle (about 62% of the sports cars sold in the U.S. are manual), it is more efficient and safe because it requires the driver's full attention and is cheaper because it requires less gas.

From the Paper
"Ever since the automotive revolution began, there has been a battle between manual and automatic transmissions. Many differences can be pointed out, and when the two are objectively compared, one can easily see that manuals are superior to automatics. One of the strongest impressions that foreigners get when they first visit the USA is the fact that so many Americans prefer to drive automobiles with automatic instead of manual transmissions. In Europe, where the average cost of gas is $4 per gallon, most people, almost without exception, drive manuals because automatics need more fuel. Driving a manual there is an axiom no one questions it, and everyone believes it is better. However, blind belief is not right. That is why a few arguments will be stated in defense of manual transmissions. Although cars with automatic transmissions may appear appealing to the customers, the truth is that manually operated automobiles are superior. Automatic cars are so easy to operate that they deprive the driver of the delight of feeling in control of the car. That ease also allows the driver to have a quick cup of coffee or a nice talk on his or her cellular phone while driving. In addition, when a driver has only one pedal and the steering wheel to worry about, he or she is more apt to fall asleep. These distractions make them dangerous on the road."

Tags:automobile, gear, oil, shift, speed

Abstract
This paper argues that hybrids are a more possible than not solution for the future. It explains how they offer many unique features including a better fuel economy and cleaner emissions. This contributes to the hybrids' growing popularity and, as a consequence, major automakers are producing their own hybrid models which include sedans, trucks and SUVs. The writer states that currently, these vehicles are more realistic than using fuel cells or diesel. The writer summarizes by claiming that all of these reasons point to the conclusion of hybrids as a definite part in the future of cars.

From the Paper
""If everyone in the US drove a hybrid instead of a traditional car, we could save roughly 1.6 billion barrels of oil a year" (Mihm 1). In the quest for cheaper gasoline and a cleaner environment, the one answer that comes to mind is the hybrid. The hybrid, a gasoline-electric car, seems to be the solution for the future. With lower emissions and better fuel economy, hybrids are thrilling consumers and environmentalists. Because of the unique features of these cars and its popularity among owners, several major automakers are following Toyota and Honda by producing their own hybrid model. This is starting a hybrid revolution whether it's for a sedan, SUV, or truck. With other fuel options such as diesel, all-electric, and fuel cells falling short, hybrids may have a secure spot in our future."

Tags:energy

Abstract
This paper explores an emerging technology known as the glass cockpit and explains the human factors that influence the implementation of this technology. This discourse describes the theoretical issues of the glass cockpit technology and the human factors associated with the invention and subsequent implementation of the technology. It also focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of the technology. The writer investigates the development of the technology and compares the glass cockpit technology with the traditional cockpit. It also discusses the military and civilian uses of the technology. Finally it explores the future trends of the glass cockpit.

From the Paper
"The term "Glass Cockpit" describes a cockpit in which all of the displays are painted onto the glass of a computer screen. Glass cockpits replace a number of, switches, gauges, and indicators with automated display systems. The use of computers to manage the on-board systems, allows pilots to describe what they want to observe at the exact time that they want to observe the indicator. Glass cockpits have allowed contemporary aircraft to require only two crewmembers as an alternative to the three needed by traditional cockpits. (Krell)"

Tags:flight, crew, indicator, NASA, transportation, aircraft, electronic, boeing, pilot, military

Abstract
This paper discusses how Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) is one of the most effective methods in achieving adequate local and global surface planarization and how chemical mechanical polishing of copper attracts a lot of interest. It examines the effects of different factors including the slurry, polishing pads and down force etc. on the quality of planarized copper layer in CMP Cu. It also presents, a new CMP copper technique with the name of "Abrasive-free polishing (AFP)".

Outline
Introduction to CMP and CMP Copper(Cu)
Techniques of CMP copper
Removal Mechanism
Slurry-- Chemistry
Slurry Abrasives Particles
Processing Factors
Polishing Pads
Abrasive-Free Polishing of Copper-a New Technique
Conclusions

From the Paper
"Recent years have witnessed the rapid development of using copper (Cu) for low resistivity electrical connections in microelectronic devices.1,2 In fact, copper is one of most commonly used pure metals in the electrical industry because of its low conduct resistivity of about 6-10-8W-m and excellent mechanical properties as well. There are various methods to deposit Cu thin films, for example, electroplating, electroless plating, sputtering and thermal evaporation can be used.3.4 The copper thin films achieved by these techniques, especially those from the electrochemical techniques, are not planar enough to promise a successful multilevel interconnection. However, in fabrication of a logic device with five or more layers, at least one layer should be perfectly planar. Lack of layer planarity may lead to severe problems for photo-lithography (such as insufficient focus depth) and dry etching in sub 0.5 mm 5. Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) is one of the most effective methods in achieving adequate local and global surface planarization.6 Therefore, chemical mechanical polishing of copper attracts a lot of interests in recent years."

Tags:cmp, afp, films, slurry

Abstract
On 28 January 1986, the world was shocked by the destruction of the Space Shuttle Challenger, and the death of its crew. This paper examines the processes used in deciding to launch the ill-fated mission. It focuses on the flawed culture within the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and its associated mismanagement. It analyses how this culture influenced NASA's beliefs, its decision-making process and its performance.
Outline
Background
Engineering
Management Issues
Belief Systems
Conclusion
Bibliography

From the Paper
"President Nixon endorsed the Shuttle during the 1972 election year because it would increase employment. In a crime against the English language, he announced that the vehicle would "revolutionise transportation into near space, by routinising it." He also recognised that it was politically unacceptable not to maintain a manned presence in space. However, the Office of Management and Budget continued to monitor the programme's costs. NASA was forced to make savings in the short term, at the expense of higher operational costs and greater risks. Solid-rocket boosters were chosen because they were less expensive to develop and could be more quickly refurbished than boosters using liquid propellants."

Tags:communication, culture, launch, neurolinguistic, nlp, orbiter, programming, rockwell, rogers, thiokol