The goal of the project is to build six modular, multi-functional data acquisition (DAQ) training sets for thermo-fluids applications. By applying the principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer, an experiment thermo-fluid systems setup will be created to be integrated with the virtual simulation program, LabVIEW.

Currently in the senior level course Experimental Thermal Science (MEET 4360), the fundamentals of data acquisition and LabVIEW are briefly covered with no physical apparatus to work with. This limits the student hands-on experience with the experiments that involve data acquisition and important measurements. With the creation of the DAQ training modules, the lab facilities will be enhanced and students in small groups of five or six together can have more practical capability in acquiring measured and recorded data as well as instrumentation in different thermo-fluid areas.

The training sets will include National Instruments compact data acquisition modules integrated with a designed and manufactured system that will include flow-rate, temperature, and pressure sensors. Also included will be an analog controlled heating source, a DC motor gear pump, a heat exchanger combined with a fan and two chambers designated for water and air. the system will be a closed-loop water cycle that will have a poly-carbonate water chamber with a fitted hot plate embedded with cartridge heaters.

Using the gear pump, a specific volume of hot water will be circulated throughout the piping system that will be integrated with sensors at different points. and passed through a heat exchanger installed inside an air chamber before then returned to the water chamber. What sets the DAQ modules apart from other potential competition is the integration of the training set to LabVIEW as well as the portability of the manufactured product.