A new energy conversion and power systems studio laboratory has brought updated equipment, new educational opportunities and greater learning flexibility to Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The lab, located in Room D114 of Moench Hall, was renovated during the summer and is being used for the first time during the fall quarter.

Best of Both Worlds: The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering's new energy conversion and power systems studio laboratory, located in Moench Hall, can be used as a lab, a classroom or a combination of both. Professor Cliff Grigg recently utilized many aspects of the studio lab while presenting a lecture as part of a Power Systems I course.

The studio lab setting combines the best of the laboratory in a classroom environment, according to ECE department chair Fred Berry. The room has state-of-the-art power systems laboratory benches on two sides, with chairs set up in lecture-room style in the middle -- in front of two large-scale screens.

So, the room can be used by students conducting laboratory projects; a professor can present materials in a lecture; or a lab and lecture can be utilized during one classroom period. The power studio lab is currently being used in the instruction of six courses covering the elements of electrical engineering, electronic device modeling, signals and systems, power electronics and power systems. Conversely, only two classes were taught in the old power lab last fall quarter.

"The studio lab gives professors greater flexibility in presenting their materials and helps introduce students earlier to power energy aspects of electrical engineering principles," Berry said. This marks the third studio laboratory adapted for the ECE department since 2002.

The energy conversion and power systems studio lab features new oscilloscopes and current voltage probes, rebuilt motors and energy power supplies, two PowerPoint projectors and a document projector. All laboratory benches are equipped with wireless computer connections. The lab cost approximately $200,000, which was covered through donations from Hoosier Energy and the National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance, along with Rose-Hulman’s academic and ECE instructional equipment funds.