Biological Systems Engineering
Undergraduate Study
For the undergraduate curriculum in biological systems engineering leading to the degree bachelor of science. This curriculum is accredited under the General Criteria and Program Criteria for Biological Systems Engineering Programs by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org/ .
Curriculum Educational Goal, Objectives, and Learning Outcomes
Biological Systems Engineering integrates life sciences with engineering to solve problems related to, or using, biological systems. These biological systems may include microbes, plants, animals, humans and/or ecosystems. Biological systems engineers have a worldview shaped by an understanding of fundamental principles of engineering and life-sciences. They use their understanding of engineering to analyze organisms or ecosystems, and their knowledge of biological systems to inspire and inform their designs. They approach engineering design from a biological systems perspective, appreciating the complexity of biological systems and developing solutions that accommodate and anticipate the adaptability of biological systems.
Goal: To educate students to solve problems related to biorenewables production and processing, water quality, environmental impacts of the bioeconomy, food processing, and biosensors, and in so doing to prepare students for professional practice and post-graduate educational opportunities.
Program Educational Objectives: Three to five years after graduation, our graduates will be using the knowledge, skills, and abilities from their biological systems engineering degree to improve the human condition through successful careers in a wide variety of fields. They will be effective leaders, collaborators, and innovators who address environmental, social, technical, and business challenges. They will be engaged in life-long learning and professional development through self-study, continuing education, or graduate/professional school.
Student Outcomes: At graduation, students will have developed and demonstrated:
(a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering;
(b) an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data;
(c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability;
(d) an ability to function on multidisciplinary teams;
(e) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems;
(f) an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility;
(g) an ability to communicate effectively;
(h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context;
(i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning;
(j) a knowledge of contemporary issues;
(k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.
Well-qualified juniors and seniors in biological systems engineering who are interested in graduate study may apply for concurrent enrollment in the Graduate College to simultaneously pursue a bachelor of science degree in biological systems engineering and a master of science degree in agricultural engineering. Under concurrent enrollment, students are eligible for assistantships and simultaneously take undergraduate and graduate courses.
A concurrent bachelor of science and master of business administration program is also offered by the department.
The department also offers a bachelor of science curriculum in agricultural engineering. See College of Engineering, Curricula. Additionally, the department offers bachelor of science curricula in agricultural systems technology and in industrial technology. See College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Curricula.
The department also participates in interdepartmental majors in environmental science, sustainable agriculture, biorenewable resources and technology, human computer interaction, and toxicology (see Index).
Curriculum in Biological Systems Engineering
Administered by the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
Leading to the degree bachelor of science.
Total credits required: 128 cr. Any transfer credit courses applied to the degree program require a grade of C or better. See also Basic Program and Special Programs.
International Perspectives: 3 cr.1
U.S. Diversity: 3 cr.1
Communication Proficiency/Library requirement:
(Minimum GPA of 2.00 in this set of courses.)
| ENGL 150 | Critical Thinking and Communication (Must have a C or better in this course) | 3 |
| ENGL 250 | Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition (Must have a C or better in this course.) | 3 |
| LIB 160 | Information Literacy | 1 |
| Communication Elective: One of the following (Must have a C or better in this course) | 3 | |
| Presentation and Sales Strategies for Agricultural Audiences | ||
| Report and Proposal Writing | ||
| Personal Sales | ||
| Technical Communication | ||
| Fundamentals of Public Speaking | ||
Social Sciences and Humanities: 12 cr. 1,2
| 3 credits from international perspectives-university approved list | 3 | |
| 3 credits from U.S. diversity-university approved list | 3 | |
| 6 credits from Social Sciences and Humanities courses-department approved list | 6 | |
| Total Credits | 12 | |
Basic Program: 27 cr.
A minimum GPA of 2.00 required for this set of courses, including any transfer courses. See Requirement for Entry into Professional Program in College of Engineering Overview section.
| A B E 160 | Systematic Problem Solving and Computer Programming 3 | 3 |
| CHEM 167 | General Chemistry for Engineering Students | 4 |
| ENGL 150 | Critical Thinking and Communication | 3 |
| ENGL 250 | Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition | 3 |
| ENGR 101 | Engineering Orientation | R |
| LIB 160 | Information Literacy | 1 |
| MATH 165 | Calculus I | 4 |
| MATH 166 | Calculus II | 4 |
| PHYS 221 | Introduction to Classical Physics I | 5 |
| Total Credits | 27 | |
Biological, Math and Physical Science: 20 cr.
| BIOL 212 | Principles of Biology II | 3 |
| CHEM 167L | Laboratory in General Chemistry for Engineering | 1 |
| or CHEM 177L | Laboratory in General Chemistry I | |
| MATH 267 | Elementary Differential Equations and Laplace Transforms | 4 |
| MICRO 302 | Biology of Microorganisms | 3 |
| MICRO 302L | Microbiology Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 222 | Introduction to Classical Physics II | 5 |
| STAT 305 | Engineering Statistics | 3 |
| Total Credits | 20 | |
Biological Systems Engineering Core: 35 cr.
(A minimum GPA of 2.00 required for this set of courses, including any transfer courses).
| A B E 216 | Fundamentals of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 3 |
| A B E 218 | Project Management & Design in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 2 |
| A B E 316 | Applied Numerical Methods for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 3 |
| A B E 363 | Agri-Industrial Applications of Electric Power and Electronics | 4 |
| A B E 380 | Principles of Biological Systems Engineering | 3 |
| A B E 404 | Instrumentation for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 3 |
| A B E 415 | Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering Design I | 2 |
| A B E 416 | Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering Design II | 2 |
| A B E 480 | Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems | 3 |
| E M 274 | Statics of Engineering | 3 |
| E M 324 | Mechanics of Materials | 3 |
| E M 327 | Mechanics of Materials Laboratory | 1 |
| M E 231 | Engineering Thermodynamics I | 3 |
| Total Credits | 35 | |
Other Remaining Courses: 8 cr.
| A B E 110 | Experiencing Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 1 |
| A B E 170 | Engineering Graphics and Introductory Design | 3 |
| A B E 201 | Preparing for Workplace Seminar | 1 |
| Communication Elective: One of the following (Must have a C or better in this course) | 3 | |
| Presentation and Sales Strategies for Agricultural Audiences | ||
| Report and Proposal Writing | ||
| Technical Communication | ||
| Personal Sales | ||
| Fundamentals of Public Speaking | ||
| Total Credits | 8 | |
Complete remaining courses from one of the following options:
Biorenewable Resources Engineering Option: 26 cr.
| A B E 325 | Biorenewable Systems | 3 |
| CHEM 331 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHEM 331L | Laboratory in Organic Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 332 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHEM 332L | Laboratory in Organic Chemistry II | 1 |
| Heat/Mass Transport Sequence (E M 378/M E 436 OR CH E 356/CH E 357) | 6 | |
| Modeling & Simulation Elective 2 | 3 | |
| Option Electives 2 | 6 | |
| Total Credits | 26 | |
Bioenvironmental Engineering Option: 26 cr.
| A B E 431 | Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Conservation Systems | 3 |
| C E 326 | Principles of Environmental Engineering | 3 |
| CHEM 211 | Quantitative and Environmental Analysis | 2 |
| CHEM 211L | Quantitative and Environmental Analysis Laboratory | 2 |
| CHEM 231 | Elementary Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 231L | Laboratory in Elementary Organic Chemistry | 1 |
| E M 378 | Mechanics of Fluids | 3 |
| C E 372 | Engineering Hydrology and Hydraulics | 3 |
| Option Elective I (One of the following) | 3 | |
| Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Monitoring Systems (offered Spring even years) | ||
| Environmental Biotechnology | ||
| Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Design | ||
| Environmental Systems I: Introduction to Environmental Systems | ||
| Option Elective II 2 | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 26 | |
Food Engineering Option: 26 cr.
| A B E 451 | Food and Bioprocess Engineering | 3 |
| A B E 469 | Grain Processing and Handling | 3 |
| CHEM 231 | Elementary Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 231L | Laboratory in Elementary Organic Chemistry | 1 |
| FS HN 311 | Food Chemistry | 3 |
| FS HN 311L | Food Chemistry Laboratory | 1 |
| FS HN 420 | Food Microbiology | 3 |
| FS HN 471 | Food Processing I | 3 |
| Heat/Mass Transport Sequence (E M 378/M E 436 OR CH E 356/CH E 357) | 6 | |
| Total Credits | 26 | |
Preprofessional and Pre-Graduate Option: 26 cr.
| CHEM 331 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHEM 331L | Laboratory in Organic Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 332 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHEM 332L | Laboratory in Organic Chemistry II | 1 |
| Heat/Mass Transport Sequence (E M 378/M E 436 OR CH E 356/CH E 357) | 6 | |
| Modeling and Simulation Elective 2 | 3 | |
| Option Electives 2 | 9 | |
| Total Credits | 26 | |
Co-op/Internships (Optional)
- These university requirements will add to the minimum credits of the program unless the university-approved courses are also approved by the department to meet other course requirements within the degree program.
U.S. Diversity, International Perspectives and Social Science/Humanities courses may not be taken Pass/Not Pass. - Choose from department approved list.
- See Basic Program for Professional Engineering Curricula for accepted substitutions for curriculum designated courses in the Basic Program.
Graduate Study
The department offers master of science, master of engineering, and doctor of philosophy degrees with a major in agricultural and biosystems engineering. Within the agricultural and biosystems engineering major the student may specialize in advanced machinery engineering, animal production systems engineering, biological and process engineering, occupational safety engineering, or water and environmental stewardship engineering. Details on current research programs available at http://www.abe.iastate.edu/ .
For the master of science program, at least 30 credits of acceptable graduate work must be completed with a minimum of 22 credits of course work; corresponding numbers for the master of engineering program are 32 and 27. For the doctor of philosophy degree, at least 72 credits of acceptable graduate work must be completed with a minimum of 42 credits of course work. All Ph.D. students must complete a teaching/extension experience prior to graduation.
The department also offers both master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees in industrial and agricultural technology.
Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
A B E 110. Experiencing Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
S.
Laboratory-based, team-oriented experiences in a spectrum of topics common to the practice of agricultural and biosystems engineering. Report writing, co-ops, internships, careers, registration planning.
A B E 160. Systematic Problem Solving and Computer Programming.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: MATH 165 or enrollment in MATH 142
Engineering approach to problem solution and presentation in the context of real world problems. Introduction to basic principles from statics, projectile motion, conservation of mass and energy and electricity and magnetism. Use of spreadsheet programs and computer programming language(s) to solve and present engineering problems. Introduction to interfacing computers to sensor systems for data collection.
A B E 170. Engineering Graphics and Introductory Design.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Satisfactory scores in math placement assessments; credit or enrollment in MATH 142.
Applications of multi-view drawings and dimensioning. Techniques for visualizing, analyzing, and communicating 3-D geometries. Application of the design process including written and oral reports.
A B E 201. Preparing for Workplace Seminar.
(Cross-listed with TSM). (1-0) Cr. 1.
F.S.
Prereq: Prereq: Sophomore classification in AE, AST, BSE, or I TEC
8 week course. Professionalism in the context of the engineering/technical workplace. Development and demonstration of key workplace competencies: teamwork, initiative, communication, and engineering/technical knowledge. Resumes; Cover Letters; Behavioral Based Interviewing; Industry Speakers; Preparation for internships experiences.
A B E 216. Fundamentals of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 160 or permission of the instructor
Application of mathematics and engineering sciences to mass and energy balances in agricultural and biological systems. Emphasis is on solving engineering problems in the areas of heat and mass transfer, air and water vapor systems; animal production systems, grain systems; food systems, hydrologic systems, and bioprocessing.
A B E 218. Project Management & Design in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
(1-2) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: A B E 216
Project management - critical path, Gantt charts, resource allocations, basic project budgeting, and project management software. Engineering design approaches. Open-ended design projects to demonstrate the preceding principles through application of technical concepts taught in prerequisite coursework.
A B E 271. Engineering Applications of Parametric Solid Modeling.
(1-2) Cr. 1.
F.S.
Prereq: A B E 170 or TSM 116 or equivalent
8 week-course. Creating, editing, and documenting part and assembly models using Solidworks.
A B E 272. Parametric Solid Models, Drawings, and Assemblies Using Pro/ENGINEER.
(1-2) Cr. 1.
F.S.
Prereq: A B E 170 or TSM 116 or equivalent
8 week-course. Applications of Pro/ENGINEER software. Create solid models of parts and assemblies. Utilize the solid models to create design documentation: standard drawing views, dimensions, and notes.
A B E 273. CAD for Process Facilities and Land Use Planning.
(1-2) Cr. 1.
Prereq: ENGR 170 or TSM 116 or equivalent. 8-week course.
Application of 2-D AutoCAD software to create and interpret 3-D drawings of plant layouts and soil water conservation structures. Use drawings to evaluate options and to create design documentation: stand drawing views, dimension, and notes.
A B E 298. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of department and Engineering Career Services
First professional work period in the cooperative education program. Students must register for this course before commencing work.
A B E 316. Applied Numerical Methods for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 160, MATH 266
Computer aided solution of agricultural engineering problems by use of numerical techniques and mathematical models. Systems analysis and optimization applicable to agricultural and biological systems.
A B E 325. Biorenewable Systems.
(Cross-listed with TSM). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: ECON 101, CHEM 163 or higher, MATH 140 or higher
Converting biorenewable resources into bioenergy and biobased products. Biorenewable concepts as they relate to drivers of change, feedstock production, processes, products, co-products, economics, and transportation/logistics.
A B E 340. Functional Analysis and Design of Agricultural Field Machinery.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 110, A B E 216
Principles of operation, design, selection, testing and evaluation of agricultural field machinery and systems. Functional and mechanical performances. Crop and soil interaction with machines. Machine systems, including land preparation, crop establishment, crop protection, harvesting and post-harvest, materials handling systems.
A B E 342. Agricultural Tractor Power.
(2-3) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: CH E 381 or M E 231
Thermodynamic principles and construction of tractor engines. Fuels, combustion, and lubrication. Kinematics and dynamics of tractor power applications; drawbar, power take-off and traction mechanisms.
A B E 363. Agri-Industrial Applications of Electric Power and Electronics.
(3-2) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: PHYS 222
Single phase and three phase circuit design. Electrical safety. Electric motors and controls. Programmable logic controllers. Digital logic, instrumentation and sensors.
A B E 380. Principles of Biological Systems Engineering.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: A B E 216 (or equivalent) and MATH 266 or 267
Unit-operation analysis of biological systems, through the study of mass, energy, and information transport in bioresource production and conversion systems. Quantification and modeling of biomass production, ecological interactions, and bioreactor operations.
A B E 388. Sustainable Engineering and International Development.
(Cross-listed with C E, E E). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Junior classification in engineering
Multi-disciplinary approach to sustainable engineering and international development, sustainable development, appropriate design and engineering, feasibility analysis, international aid, business development, philosophy and politics of technology, and ethics in engineering. Engineering-based projects from problem formulation through implementation. Interactions with partner community organizations or international partners such as nongovernment organizations (NGOs). Course readings, final project/design report.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
A B E 396. Summer Internship.
Cr. R.
Repeatable. SS.
Prereq: Permission of department and Engineering Career Services
Summer professional work period.
A B E 397. Engineering Internship.
Cr. R.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: A B E 218 and permission of department and Engineering Career Services
One semester maximum per academic year professional work period.
A B E 398. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: A B E 298, permission of department and Engineering Career Services
Second professional work period in the cooperative education program. Students must register for this course before commencing work.
A B E 403. Modeling and Controls for Agricultural Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 503). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 363, MATH 266
Modeling dynamic systems with ordinary differential equations. Introduction to state variable methods of system analysis. Analysis of mechanical, electrical, and fluid power systems. Analytical and numerical solutions of differential equations. Introduction to classical control theory. Feedback and stability examined in the s domain. Frequency response as an analytical and experimental tool. MATLAB will be used throughout the course for modeling. Individual and/or group projects required for graduate credit.
A B E 404. Instrumentation for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
(Dual-listed with A B E 504). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 363 or CPR E 281
Interfacing techniques for computer-based data acquisition and control systems. Basic interfacing components including A/D and D/A conversion, signal filtering, multiplexing, and process control. Sensors and theory of operation applied to practical monitoring and control problems. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.
A B E 408. GIS and Natural Resources Management.
(Dual-listed with A B E 508). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Working knowledge of computers and Windows environment
Introduction to fundamental concepts and applications of GIS in natural resources management with specific focus on watersheds. Topics include: basic GIS technology, data structures, database management, spatial analysis, and modeling; visualization and display of natural resource data. Case studies in watershed and natural resource management using ArcView GIS.
A B E 410. Electronic Systems Integration for Agricultural Machinery & Production Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 510). Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
System architecture and design of electronics used in agricultural machinery and production systems. Emphasis on information technology and systems integration for automated agriculture processes. Design of Controller Area Network (CAN BUS) communication systems and discussion of relevant standards (ISO 11783 and SAE J1939). Application of technologies for sensing, distribution control, and automation of agricultural machinery will be emphasized.
A B E 413. Fluid Power Engineering.
(Cross-listed with M E). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in E M 378 or M E 335, A B E 216 or M E 270
Properties of hydraulic fluids. Performance parameters of fixed and variable displacement pumps and motors. Hydraulic circuits and systems. Hydrostatic transmissions. Characteristics of control valves. Analysis and design of hydraulic systems for power and control functions.
A B E 415. Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering Design I.
(1-2) Cr. 2.
F.S.
Prereq: A B E 271 or A B E 272, E M 324 (majors only)
Identification of current design problems in ag & biosystems engineering. Development of alternate solutions using creativity and engineering analysis and synthesis techniques.
A B E 416. Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering Design II.
(1-2) Cr. 2.
F.S.
Prereq: A B E 415 (majors only)
Selection of promising solutions to design problems identified in 415 for development by design teams. Presentation of designs through oral and written reports and prototypes.
A B E 418. Fundamentals of Engineering Review.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: senior classification.
8 week course. Review of core concepts covered in the Fundamentals of Engineering examination with emphasis on statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, electric circuits, and engineering economics. Open to all College of Engineering seniors, however focus is on the general exam, not discipline specific exams.
A B E 424. Air Pollution.
(Dual-listed with A B E 524). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.
A B E 424A. Air Pollution: Air quality and effects of pollutants.
(Dual-listed with A B E 524A). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.
A B E 424B. Air Pollution: Climate change and causes.
(Dual-listed with A B E 524B). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.
A B E 424C. Air Pollution: Transportation Air Quality.
(Dual-listed with A B E 524C). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: C E 524A; PHYS 221 or CHEM 178; MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above.
A B E 424D. Air Pollution: Off-gas treatment technology.
(Dual-listed with A B E 524D). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.
A B E 424E. Air Pollution: Agricultural sources of pollution.
(Dual-listed with A B E 524E). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.
A B E 431. Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Conservation Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 531). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: E M 378 or CH E 356
Hydrology and hydraulics in agricultural and urbanizing watersheds. Design and evaluation of systems for the conservation and quality preservation of soil and water resources. Use and analysis of hydrologic data in engineering design; relationship of topography, soils, crops, climate, and cultural practices in conservation and quality preservation of soil and water for agriculture. Small watershed hydrology, water movement and utilization in the soil-plant-atmosphere system, agricultural water management, best management practices, and agricultural water quality.
A B E 432. Nonpoint Source Pollution and Control.
(Dual-listed with A B E 532). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: A B E 431 or C E 372
Characteristics and courses of non-point source (NPS) pollution in agricultural and urban watersheds, computer modeling and NPS pollution for terrestrial and aquatic systems, strategies to control and manage NPS pollution of water bodies, total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and integrated watershed management. Graduate students are required to review research papers and develop/deliver lecture models on assigned topics.
A B E 436. Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Monitoring Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 536). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 431/A B E 531
Development of monitoring systems that support effective planning, performance evaluation, modeling, or environmental impact assessment of soil-, water-, and waste-management systems. Typical soil and water pollutants and physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that affect sample location and timing. Sample collection, documentation, chain-of-custody, and quality assurance procedures. In addition to other assignments, graduate students will prepare several research literature reviews on topics covered in the class and develop monitoring plans.
A B E 451. Food and Bioprocess Engineering.
(Dual-listed with A B E 551). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 216 and M E 436 or CH E 357, or FS HN 351 and MATH 266 or MATH 267
Application of engineering principles and mathematical modeling to the quantitative analysis of food and bioprocessing systems. Physical/chemical characteristics of foods and biological systems, flow processes, thermal processes and separation processes. Term paper required for graduate credit.
A B E 466. Multidisciplinary Engineering Design.
(Cross-listed with AER E, CPR E, E E, ENGR, I E, M E, MAT E). (1-4) Cr. 3.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Student must be within two semesters of graduation and permission of instructor.
Application of team design concepts to projects of a multidisciplinary nature. Concurrent treatment of design, manufacturing and life cycle considerations. Application of design tools such as CAD, CAM and FEM. Design methodologies, project scheduling, cost estimating, quality control, manufacturing processes. Development of a prototype and appropriate documentation in the form of written reports, oral presentations, computer models and engineering drawings.
A B E 469. Grain Processing and Handling.
(Dual-listed with A B E 569). (2-3) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: A B E 216
Cereal grain and oilseed properties, quality measurement, processing, and end-use value. Design of drying systems using computer simulation. Corn wet and dry milling. Soybean oil extraction. Grain handling systems.
A B E 472. Design of Environmental Modification Systems for Animal Housing.
(Dual-listed with A B E 572). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 216, M E 231
Principles and design of animal environmental control systems. Insulation, heat and mass transfer, fans, ventilation, air distribution, heating and cooling equipment, and controls. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.
A B E 475. Design in Animal Production Systems Engineering.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
F.S.
Prereq: A B E 271 or A B E 272, E M 324
Application of engineering fundamentals to the independent solution of an animal production systems engineering problem with well defined criteria and constraints in either environmental control, structural design, manure management, or air quality/mitigation.
A B E 478. Wood Frame Structural Design.
(Dual-listed with A B E 578). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 216, E M 324
Design of light-framed wood structures using LRFD and ASD design procedures. Includes analysis of wind, snow, dead, and live loads. Applications include animal housing and machine storage. Fasteners, laminated posts, truss design and use of National Design Specifications.
A B E 480. Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems.
(Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 380 or permission of the instructor
Systems-level engineering analysis of biological systems. Economic and life-cycle analysis of bioresource production and conversion systems. Global energy and resource issues and the role of biologically derived materials in addressing these issues.
A B E 490. A B E Independent Study.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable.
Independent Study.
A B E 490A. A B E Independent Study: Animal Production Systems Engineering.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable.
Independent Study.
A B E 490B. A B E Independent Study: Biorenewable Resources.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Independent study.
A B E 490E. A B E Independent Study: Environmental Bioprocessing Engineering.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Independent study in environmental bioprocessing engineering.
A B E 490F. A B E Independent Study: Food Engineering.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Independent study in food engineering.
A B E 490G. A B E Independent Study: General Topics in A B E.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Independent study in general A B E topics.
A B E 490H. A B E Independent Study: Honors.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable.
Guided instructing in agricultural and biosystems engineering for honors students.
A B E 490L. A B E Independent Study: Land & Water Resources Engineering.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable.
Guided instruction in land and water resources engineering.
A B E 490M. A B E Independent Study: Advanced Machinery Systems Engineering.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable.
Guided instruction in advance machinery systems engineering.
A B E 495. Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department Study Abroad Preparation or Follow-up.
(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1-2.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Preparation for, or follow-up of, study abroad experience (496). For preparation, course focuses on understanding the tour destination through readings, discussions, and research on topics such as the regional industries, climate, crops, culture, economics, food, geography, government, history, natural resources, and public policies. For follow-up, course focuses on presentations by students, report writing, and reflection. Students enrolled in this course intend to register for 496 the following term or have had taken 496 the previous term.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
A B E 496. Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department Study Abroad.
(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Tour and study at international sites relevant to disciplines of industrial technology, biological systems engineering, agricultural systems technology, and agricultural engineering. Location and duration of tours will vary. Trip expenses paid by students. Pre-trip preparation and/or post-trip reflection and reports arranged through 495.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
A B E 498. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: A B E 398, permission of department and Engineering Career Services
Third and subsequent professional work periods in the cooperative education program. Students must register for this course before commencing work.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:
A B E 501. Fundamentals of Biorenewable Resources.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Undergraduate training in an engineering or physical or biological discipline or degrees in agriculture or economics
Introduction to the science and engineering of converting biorenewable resources into bioenergy and biobased products. Survey of biorenewable resource base and properties; description of biobased products; methods of biorenewable resource production; processing technologies for fuels, chemicals, materials, and energy; environmental impacts; economics of biobased products and bioenergy.
A B E 503. Modeling and Controls for Agricultural Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 403). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 363, MATH 266
Modeling dynamic systems with ordinary differential equations. Introduction to state variable methods of system analysis. Analysis of mechanical, electrical, and fluid power systems. Analytical and numerical solutions of differential equations. Introduction to classical control theory. Feedback and stability examined in the s domain. Frequency response as an analytical and experimental tool. MATLAB will be used throughout the course for modeling. Individual and/or group projects required for graduate credit.
A B E 504. Instrumentation for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
(Dual-listed with A B E 404). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 363 or CPR E 281
Interfacing techniques for computer-based data acquisition and control systems. Basic interfacing components including A/D and D/A conversion, signal filtering, multiplexing, and process control. Sensors and theory of operation applied to practical monitoring and control problems. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.
A B E 506. Applied Computational Intelligence.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 316 or equivalent, MATH 166, STAT 305
Applications of biologically inspired computational intelligence tools for data mining, system modeling, and optimization for agricultural, biological and other engineered systems. Introduction to Artificial Neural Networks, Support Vector Machines, Fuzzy Logic, Genetic Algorithms, Bayesian and Decision Tree learning. Fundamental Machine Vision techniques will be introduced in the first part of course and be integrated into the lab exercises for learning different computational intelligence techniques. MATLAB will be used throughout the course for algorithm implementation.
A B E 508. GIS and Natural Resources Management.
(Dual-listed with A B E 408). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Working knowledge of computers and Windows environment
Introduction to fundamental concepts and applications of GIS in natural resources management with specific focus on watersheds. Topics include: basic GIS technology, data structures, database management, spatial analysis, and modeling; visualization and display of natural resource data. Case studies in watershed and natural resource management using ArcView GIS.
A B E 510. Electronic Systems Integration for Agricultural Machinery & Production Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 410). Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
System architecture and design of electronics used in agricultural machinery and production systems. Emphasis on information technology and systems integration for automated agriculture processes. Design of Controller Area Network (CAN BUS) communication systems and discussion of relevant standards (ISO 11783 and SAE J1939). Application of technologies for sensing, distribution control, and automation of agricultural machinery will be emphasized.
A B E 515. Integrated Crop and Livestock Production Systems.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, AN S, SUSAG). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: SUSAG 509
Methods to maintain productivity and minimize the negative ecological effects of agricultural systems by understanding nutrient cycles, managing manure and crop residue, and utilizing multispecies interactions. Crop and livestock production within landscapes and watersheds is also considered. Course includes a significant field component, with student teams analyzing Iowa farms.
A B E 524. Air Pollution.
(Dual-listed with A B E 424). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.
A B E 524A. Air Pollution: Air quality and effects of pollutants.
(Dual-listed with A B E 424A). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
A B E 524B. Air Pollution: Climate change and causes.
(Dual-listed with A B E 424B). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: C E 524A; Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
A B E 524C. Air Pollution: Transportation Air Quality.
(Dual-listed with A B E 424C). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: C E 524A; PHYS 221 or CHEM 178; MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above.
A B E 524D. Air Pollution: Off-gas treatment technology.
(Dual-listed with A B E 424D). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: C E 524A, C E 524B; Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
A B E 524E. Air Pollution: Agricultural sources of pollution.
(Dual-listed with A B E 424E). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: C E 524A, C E 524B; Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
A B E 531. Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Conservation Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 431). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: E M 378 or CH E 356
Hydrology and hydraulics in agricultural and urbanizing watersheds. Design and evaluation of systems for the conservation and quality preservation of soil and water resources. Use and analysis of hydrologic data in engineering design; relationship of topography, soils, crops, climate, and cultural practices in conservation and quality preservation of soil and water for agriculture. Small watershed hydrology, water movement and utilization in the soil-plant-atmosphere system, agricultural water management, best management practices, and agricultural water quality.
A B E 532. Nonpoint Source Pollution and Control.
(Dual-listed with A B E 432). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: A B E 431 or C E 372
Characteristics and courses of non-point source (NPS) pollution in agricultural and urban watersheds, computer modeling and NPS pollution for terrestrial and aquatic systems, strategies to control and manage NPS pollution of water bodies, total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and integrated watershed management. Graduate students are required to review research papers and develop/deliver lecture models on assigned topics.
A B E 533. Erosion and Sediment Transport.
(Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: C E 372, MATH 266
Soil erosion processes, modified universal soil loss equation and its application to conservation planning, sediment properties, initiation of sediment motion and over land flow, flow in alluvial channels and theory of sediment transport, channel stability, reserves sedimentation, wind erosion, BMPs for controlling erosion.
A B E 536. Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Monitoring Systems.
(Dual-listed with A B E 436). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 431/A B E 531
Development of monitoring systems that support effective planning, performance evaluation, modeling, or environmental impact assessment of soil-, water-, and waste-management systems. Typical soil and water pollutants and physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that affect sample location and timing. Sample collection, documentation, chain-of-custody, and quality assurance procedures. In addition to other assignments, graduate students will prepare several research literature reviews on topics covered in the class and develop monitoring plans.
A B E 537. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Development and Implementation.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: CE 372 or equivalent
A project-based course to develop a water quality improvement plan. The legislative and judicial basis of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program, different approaches for TMDL development, data needs and sources, SWAT modeling, and principles and techniques for implementation of water quality improvement plans.
A B E 551. Food and Bioprocess Engineering.
(Dual-listed with A B E 451). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 216 and M E 436 or CH E 357, or FS HN 351 and MATH 266 or MATH 267
Application of engineering principles and mathematical modeling to the quantitative analysis of food and bioprocessing systems. Physical/chemical characteristics of foods and biological systems, flow processes, thermal processes and separation processes. Term paper required for graduate credit.
A B E 569. Grain Processing and Handling.
(Dual-listed with A B E 469). (2-3) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: A B E 216
Cereal grain and oilseed preservation, quality measurement, and end-use value. Design of drying systems using computer simulation. Corn wet and dry milling. Soybean oil extraction. Grain handling systems. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.
A B E 572. Design of Environmental Modification Systems for Animal Housing.
(Dual-listed with A B E 472). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 216, M E 231
Principles and design of animal environmental control systems. Insulation, heat and mass transfer, fans, ventilation, air distribution, heating and cooling equipment, and controls. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.
A B E 578. Wood Frame Structural Design.
(Dual-listed with A B E 478). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: A B E 216, E M 324
Design of light-framed wood structures using LRFD and ASD design procedures. Includes analysis of wind, snow, dead, and live loads. Applications include animal housing and machine storage. Fasteners, laminated posts, truss design and use of National Design Specifications.
A B E 580. Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: A B E 216; MATH 266; BIOL 211 or BIOL 212; M E 231
Systems-level engineering analysis of biological systems. Economic and life-cycle analysis of bioresource production and conversion systems. Global energy and resource issues and the role of biologically derived materials in addressing these issues. Students enrolled in ABE 580 will be required to answer additional exam questions and report on two journal articles.
A B E 590. Special Topics in Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable.
Guided instruction and self-study on special topics relevant to agricultural and biosystems engineering.
A B E 598. Technical Communications for a Master's Degree.
(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1.
F.S.SS.
A technical paper draft based on the M.S. thesis or creative component is required of all master's students. This paper must be in a form that satisfies the requirements of some specific journal and be ready for submission. A technical presentation based on M.S. thesis or creative component is required of all master's students. This presentation must be in a form that satisfies the normal presentation requirements of a professional society. The presentation itself (oral or poster) may be made at a professional society meeting or at any international, regional, state, or university conference/event as long as the presentation content and form conforms to normal expectations.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
A B E 599. Creative Component.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Creative Component.
Courses for graduate students:
A B E 601. Graduate Seminar.
(Cross-listed with TSM). (1-0) Cr. 1.
F.
Keys to writing a good MS thesis or PhD dissertation. How to begin formulating research problems. Discussion of research problems and broader impacts, review of literature, identifying knowledge gaps and needs, long-term goals, research hypotheses, objectives, rationale and significance, methods, procedures, data analysis, and reporting results. Presentation of research proposal in different formats. Using peer review and responding to feedback.
A B E 610. Foundations of Sustainable Agriculture.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, ANTHR, SOC, SUSAG). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Graduate classification, permission of instructor
Historical, biophysical, socioeconomic, and ethical dimensions of agricultural sustainability. Strategies for evaluating existing and emerging agricultural systems in terms of the core concepts of sustainability and their theoretical contexts.
A B E 690. Advanced Topics.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Advanced topics.
A B E 694. Teaching Practicum.
(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Graduate classification and permission of instructor
Graduate student experience in the agricultural and biosystems engineering departmental teaching program.
A B E 697. Engineering Internship.
Cr. R.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of department chair, graduate classification
One semester and one summer maximum per academic year professional work period.
A B E 698. Technical Communications for a Doctoral Degree.
(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1.
F.S.SS.
A technical paper draft based on the dissertation is required of all Ph.D. students. This paper must be in a form that satisfies the requirements of some specific journal and be ready for submission. A technical presentation based on the dissertation is required of all Ph.D. students. This presentation must be in a form that satisfies the normal presentation requirements of a professional society. The presentation itself (oral or poster) may be made at a professional society meeting or at any international, regional, state, or university conference/event as long as the presentation content and form conforms to normal expectations.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
A B E 699. Research.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Research.
A B E 699B. Research: Biosystems Engineering.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in biosystems engineering.
A B E 699C. Research: Computer Aided Design.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in computer-aided design.
A B E 699E. Research: Environmental Systems.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in environmental systems.
A B E 699F. Research: Food Engineering.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in food engineering.
A B E 699O. Research: Occupational Safety.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in occupational safety.
A B E 699P. Research: Power and Machinery Engineering.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in power and machinery engineering.
A B E 699Q. Research: Structures.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in structures.
A B E 699R. Research: Process Engineering.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in process engineering.
A B E 699S. Research: Environment and Natural Resources.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in environment and natural resources.
A B E 699U. Research: Waste Management.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Guided graduate research in waste management.
