This paper discusses how multiphysics simulations and applications are being used to build essential skills in preparation for entry into an Industry 4.0 workforce. In a highly networked and collaborative human/machine cyberspace, some important competencies for engineering graduates include the ability to: (1) explore design options and results easily between suites of software, (2) predict and visualize performance of complex problems in the beginning phase of the design process, and (3) identify and optimize key parameters prior to fabrication. We describe how integrated project- and inquiry-based learning in the context of a simulation environment and across the curriculum is improving student readiness and transition into industry. Our paper offers a template of how to transition into a curriculum that produces newly minted engineers better equipped to engage in complex design. Examples of project assignments, assessment methods, and student work are discussed as well as future plans.

This paper discusses how application building has been integrated into a set of graduate and undergraduate engineering courses that contain computational simulation learning outcomes. Applications (apps) were first included in a multidisciplinary modeling graduate course that culminates in the end-of-semester research effort. At the undergraduate level, apps were added into a two-course mechanical engineering thermo-fluids sequence. Since introducing apps, students have become demonstrably more engaged in the subject matter and are devoting more time out of the classroom to understand fundamental concepts. Simulations have long been used to analyze and predict performance in order to guide engineering design teams. Now, commercial software suppliers have bundled application building into their offerings. An effective app has a simplified interface yet it contains the full efficacy of the underlying model without exposing the end user to its complexity. Within the modeling software, COMSOL Multiphysics®, an Application Builder allows developers to quickly create easy-to-use apps based on working models. The finished app provides for the inputs, settings, and outputs the user is allowed to control and view. Companies as well as research organizations are using apps to extend product models to their constituents, be it customers, supply chain members or the broader scientific community. Leveraging simulation models accompanied by apps is proving to be an efficient way to add an additional skillset to our graduates as they enter the workplace. The paper provides an overview of how application building is employed at the engineering graduate and undergraduate levels. Examples of modeling and simulations assigned in the aforementioned courses are discussed. Illustrations of student work as well as the assessment criteria used to measure performance are presented.

An initial optical fiber transmission system under development for Army long haul tactical communications is described and evaluated. The system interfaces with the 2.304 Mbit/s data input and output of an Army inventory multiplexer and its orderwire. The system includes transmitter and receiver end terminals, three data rate transparent repeaters, 8 km of graded index optical fiber, plus three optical attenuators and various optical connectors for simulating transmission up to 32 km. Long repeater spacing is achieved using low loss fiber, semiconductor lasers stabilized using optical feedback, and avalanche photodiodes. The system met all of the specified requirements and shows that optical fiber transmission systems have excellent prospects of meeting full military specifications. The versatility of data rate transparent repeaters is achievable even for transmission up to the 64 km distance desired for Army long haul tactical communications.