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Curriculum Vitae


Thomas M. Adams, PhD

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Education
1998 Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering
Dissertation: "Turbulent Convection in Microchannels"
 
1991 Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
MS, Mechanical Engineering
 
1990 Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN
BS Mechanical Engineering, Magna Cum Laude
Philosophy Minor
  
Appointments and employment
2019-present Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN
Herman A. Moench Distinguished Professor
 
2011-present Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN
Professor, Mechanical Engineering
 
2014 Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Lima, Perú
Visiting Professor of Mechanical Engineering
 
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN
2005-2011 Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering
1999-2005 Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering
 
Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
1999 Adjunct Professor
1998 Instructor
1994-1998 Graduate Teaching Assistant
 
1992 Georgia Environmental Organization, Atlanta, GA
Public Outreach
 
1990-1991 Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Graduate Teaching Assistant
 
1989 Aspinwall and Carter Engineering, Savannah, GA
Engineering Technician, Survey team party chief
 
1988 Southeastern Surveying, Hilton Head, SC
Rodman
 
1987 US Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah, GA
Engineering Technician
  ⇧ 
Teaching
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Statics and Mechanics of Materials I, Conservation and Accounting Principles, Fluid & Thermal Systems, Fluid Systems, Thermodynamics II, Applications of Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Mechanical Measurements Laboratory, Measurement Systems, Renewable Energy, Introduction to MEMS–Fabrication and Applications, Thermal Design, Advanced MEMS - Modeling and Packaging, Advanced Topics in MEMS, Microfluidics, and Advanced Thermodynamics.

Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú
Introduction to micro-technology
Georgia Institute of Technology
Mechanics of Solids I, Thermodynamics I, Thermodynamics II, Thermal Systems Analysis, Experimental Methodology Lab, and Thermal Systems Design
  
Research
Entropy generation minimization in internal forced convection
Extended and reformulated existing methods for minimizing entropy generation in forced internal convection to apply to cases in which heat transfer and duct geometry are constant. Applications include both laminar and turbulent flow in smooth ducts and ducts that include augmented heat transfer surfaces.

Relative capture area as a measure of performance for wind turbines
Reinterpreted the power coefficient for wind turbines as the relative capture area and examined the implications for its use as a measure of performance.

Modeling and characterization of MEMS hot-arm actuators
Collaborated with undergraduate college students and high school students on modeling and experimentally verifying a multi-energy domain lumped element model for hot arm MEMS actuators.

"Shock-plugs" in compressible flow
Postulated the existence of and performed first-order analysis of "shock-plugs," standing normal shocks of finite thickness. Collaborated with undergraduate and graduate students to refine the model and potentially experimentally detect shock-plugs' presence.

Relating equivalent sand-grain roughness to Hazen-Williams roughness parameter Developed a semi-empirical model to relate equivalent sand-grain roughness as used in finding the D'Arcy friction factor to the dimensionless roughness parameter used in the Hazen-Williams equation for flow velocity in pipe flow

Surface tension driven flow in microchannels
Developed macroscopic conservation law based physical models for the surface tension driven flow of liquids in microchannels.

Combined Electro-osmotic and Pressure-Driven Flow in Microchannels
Developed D'Arcy friction factor/mechanical energy formulations for liquid flow in microchannels due to the combined effect of electro-osmosis and applied pressure gradients.
Effect of ultrasound on solid microparticles
Worked at Rose-Hulman Ventures with a team of students on a project sponsored by Southwest Michigan First (SWMF) Life Science Fund. The project entailed experimental work aimed at assessing the feasibility of using ultrasound in the destruction of solid microparticles with applications in the medical field.

Titanium-nickel shape memory alloy MEMS heat engine
Investigated plausibility of creating a thin film titanium nickel (TiNi) shape memory alloy MEMS heat engine. Research includes design, physical and numerical modeling, and prototype development. Research is part of the ongoing efforts of the Rose-Hulman MEMS group and their continued work with undergraduate MEMS education at RHIT.

Effect of noncondensable gas desorption in turbulent microchannel flow
Developed computer models to predict void fraction, pressure drop, fluid velocity, temperature and heat transfer enhancement of water flow in microchannels due to the desorption of noncondensable gases. Also performed experiments to physically quantify the effect of the desorption of dissolved air in water on forced convection in microchannels.

Turbulent convection in microchannels
Designed and constructed an experimental test loop to measure single-phase heat transfer coefficients and friction factors in circular and non-circular channels with hydraulic diameters less than 2 mm.
  ⇧ 
Graduate theses advised
2016 Thompson, M., "Shock-plugs in Quasi-one-dimensional Compressible Flow" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2013 Bomar, A. J., "A Model for the Application of Folded Fin Heat Sink Technology to an IGBT Cooling System" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2009 Armes, C. M., "Development of a Finite Element Model of a Generator Control Unit/Relay Box Mount for Normal Mode Vibration" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2008 Bobrowski, Sebastian, "Design and Fabrication of Piezoelectric MEMS Device Using a PZT Thin Film" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2007 Deckert, Martin, "Design of a MEMS Power Generating Device Using a Shape Memory Alloy and Piezoelectric Thin Film" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2005 Grüninger, Albert, "Power Scaling for a Diffusion Cooled Coaxial CO2-Laser" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2004 Wang, Zhefu, "Design, Modeling and Fabrication of a TiNi MEMS Heat Engine" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. This research was partially supported by the Rose-Hulman Graduate Studies Program as the winner of the annual graduate student proposal writing competition
2004 Arigapudi, Amith, "Characterization of Touch Mode Capacitive Pressure Sensors" Master's thesis, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
  
Books
2010 Adams, T. M., Layton, R. A., Introductory MEMS: Fabrication and Applications. Springer.
2006 Adams, T. M., "Economic Optimization of Heat Transfer Systems", chapter in Heat Transfer Calculations, Myer Kutz, Ed., McGraw-Hill
  
Publications and presentations:
award.png 2023 Adams, T. M., Nash, A. L., Muñoz Cámara, J., and Solano Fernández, J. P. (2023, August) Alternate Formulation for Entropy Minimization in Forced Internal Convection, Proceedings of the 10th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM'23), London, United Kingdom.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: In this paper, we present an alternate formulation for minimizing entropy generation in forced internal convection. Whereas most existing approaches focus on finding an optimum Reynolds number that minimizes entropy generation for a given mass flow and heat transfer rate, we explore the effects of changing flowrate for fixed channel dimensions, as well as changing flowrate and channel dimensions simultaneously. For turbulent flow with fixed channel dimensions, the minimum entropy gen-eration is realized at different optimum Reynolds number than that for fixed mass flow. When varying both flowrate and chan-nel dimensions, no absolute minimum exists, and entropy generation continues to decrease with increasing mass flow and chan-nel dimensions. In this case, minimizing entropy corresponds either to optimizing the channel dimensions for the maximum available flowrate, or vice versa.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2023,
  author    = {Thomas Adams and Austin Nash and José Muñoz Cámara and Juan Pedro Solano Fernández},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the 9th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM'23)},
  title     = {Alternate Formulation for Entropy Minimization in Forced Internal Convection},
  year      = {2023},
	doi       = {https://doi.org/10.11159/htff23.154}
  month     = aug,
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},,
  abstract  = {In this paper, we present an alternate formulation for minimizing entropy generation in forced internal convection. Whereas most existing approaches focus on finding an optimum Reynolds number that minimizes entropy generation for a given mass flow and heat transfer rate, we explore the effects of changing flowrate for fixed channel dimensions, as well as changing flowrate and channel dimensions simultaneously. For turbulent flow with fixed channel dimensions, the minimum entropy gen-eration is realized at different optimum Reynolds number than that for fixed mass flow. When varying both flowrate and chan-nel dimensions, no absolute minimum exists, and entropy generation continues to decrease with increasing mass flow and chan-nel dimensions. In this case, minimizing entropy corresponds either to optimizing the channel dimensions for the maximum available flowrate, or vice versa. },
  keywords  = {Entropy generation minimization, forced internal convection},
}
  
2022 White, F. M. and Adams, T. M. (2022). Boundary-layer Flow, AccessScience.
[BibTeX] [DOI]
BibTeX:

@Article{White2022_2,
  author    = {F. M. White and T. M. Adams},
  journal   = {Access Science},
  title     = {Boundary-layer flow},
  year      = {2022},
  doi       = {https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.092500},
  publisher = {{McGraw}-Hill Professional},
}

  
2022 White, F. M. and Adams, T. M. (2022). Fluid Mechanics, AccessScience.
[BibTeX] [DOI]
BibTeX:

@Article{White2022,
  author    = {F. M. White and T. M. Adams},
  journal   = {Access Science},
  title     = {Fluid mechanics},
  year      = {2022},
  doi       = {https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.262300},
  publisher = {{McGraw}-Hill Professional},
}

  
2022 Adams, T. M. and Hagist, W. M. (2022). Hydraulics, AccessScience .
[BibTeX] [DOI]
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams2022,
  author    = {Thomas M. Adams and Warren M. Hagist},
  journal   = {AccessScience},
  title     = {Hydraulics},
  year      = {2022},
  doi       = {10.1036/1097-8542.327300},
  publisher = {{McGraw}-Hill Professional},
}
  
2021 White, F. M. and Adams, T. M. (2021) Bernoulli's Theorem, AccessScience .
[BibTeX] [DOI]
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams2021_5,
  author    = {Frank M. White and Thomas Adams},
  journal   = {AccessScience},
  title     = {Bernoulli{\textquotesingle}s theorem},
  year      = {2021},
  doi       = {10.1036/1097-8542.079300},
  publisher = {{McGraw}-Hill Professional},
}
  
2021 Adams, T. M. and Mertz, B. E. (2021) Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine Power Coefficient as Relative Capture Area, Journal of Fluid Flow, Heat and Mass Transfer (JFFHMT), 8, 254-261.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: Linear momentum theory as applied to horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) provides perhaps the most useful basis for understanding their operation. In particular, the theoretically derived expression for power coefficient represents a convenient measure of performance, as well as provides insight into optimal operating conditions. The typical interpretation of power coefficient as an energy conversion efficiency, however, especially in the context of converting the "power in the wind" to a power output, comes with several conceptual difficulties. In this paper we argue that power coefficient is better interpreted as the "relative capture area" of a wind turbine, a parameter analogous to relative capture width for ocean wave energy conversion devices. Such an interpretation removes the ambiguities associated with the efficiency concept, gives a more physically coherent picture of wind turbine operation, and provides the most pragmatic measure of performance. In addition, the relative capture idea is universally valid, applicable not only to HAWTs but all other wind machine designs as well.
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams2021_4,
  author   = {Thomas M. Adams and Benjamin E. Mertz},
  journal  = {Journal of Fluid Flow, Heat and Mass Transfer (JFFHMT)},
  title    = {Horizontal {A}xis {W}ind {T}urbine {P}ower {C}oefficient as {R}elative {C}apture {A}rea},
  year     = {2021},
  issn     = {2368-6111},
  month    = nov,
  pages    = {254--261},
  volume   = {8},
  abstract = {Linear momentum theory as applied to horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) provides perhaps the most useful basis for understanding their operation. In particular, the theoretically derived expression for power coefficient represents a convenient measure of performance, as well as provides insight into optimal operating conditions. The typical interpretation of power coefficient as an energy conversion efficiency, however, especially in the context of converting the “power in the wind” to a power output, comes with several conceptual difficulties. In this paper we argue that power coefficient is better interpreted as the “relative capture area” of a wind turbine, a parameter analogous to relative capture width for ocean wave energy conversion devices. Such an interpretation removes the ambiguities associated with the efficiency concept, gives a more physically coherent picture of wind turbine operation, and provides the most pragmatic measure of performance. In addition, the relative capture idea is universally valid, applicable not only to HAWTs but all other wind machine designs as well.},
  doi      = {10.11159/jffhmt.2021.027},
  keywords = {Power coefficient, Betz limit, capture width,linear momentum theory.},
}
  
2021 White, F. M. and Adams, T.M. (2021). Laminar flow. AccessScience.
[BibTeX] [DOI]
BibTeX:

@Article{Adams2021_6,
  author    = {Frank M. White and Thomas M. Adams},
  title     = {Laminar flow},
  year      = {2021},
  month     = oct,
  doi       = {10.1036/1097-8542.369100},
  publisher = {{McGraw}-Hill Professional},
  url       = {https://www.accessscience.com/content/laminar-flow/369100},
}

  
2021 Adams, T. M. (2021). On generalist scholarship: A hierarchical view of research. Physics of Fluids, 33(9), 091401.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: In this Perspective, the author presents his vision of scholarship as consisting of hierarchically nested levels of specialization, each level offering its own perspective and value. He argues that in an era of increasingly sophisticated analysis tools, modern scholarship tends to proceed largely unaware of the benefits of conducting research at the higher, more general levels of the hierarchy. Drawing upon his own research and that of others, he gives examples of the manner in which generalist scholarship may proceed, the type of unique insights it uncovers, and the wisdom afforded us via an awareness of where our scholarship resides within the hierarchy.
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams2021_3,
  author   = {Thomas M. Adams},
  journal  = {Physics of Fluids},
  title    = {On generalist scholarship: {A} hierarchical view of research},
  year     = {2021},
  month    = sep,
  number   = {9},
  pages    = {091401-1--091401-11},
  volume   = {33},
  abstract = {In this Perspective, the author presents his vision of scholarship as consisting of hierarchically nested levels of specialization, each level offering its own perspective and value. He argues that in an era of increasingly sophisticated analysis tools, modern scholarship tends to proceed largely unaware of the benefits of conducting research at the higher, more general levels of the hierarchy. Drawing upon his own research and that of others, he gives examples of the manner in which generalist scholarship may proceed, the type of unique insights it uncovers, and the wisdom afforded us via an awareness of where our scholarship resides within the hierarchy.},
  doi      = {10.1063/5.0063899},
  url      = {https://aip.scitation.org/doi/10.1063/5.0063899},
}
  
2021 Adams, T. M. and Mertz, B. E. (2021, August). A Re-examination of Power Coefficient as a Measure of Performance for Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines, Proceedings of the 7th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM'21), Virtual Conference.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: Linear momentum theory as applied to horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) provides perhaps the most useful basis for understanding their operation. In particular, the theoretically derived expression for power coefficient represents a convenient measure of performance, as well as provides insight into optimal operating conditions. The typical interpretation of power factor as an energy conversion efficiency, however, especially in the context of converting the “power in the wind” to a power output, has several conceptual difficulties. In this paper it is argued that the energy efficiency interpretation of power coefficient can be misleading, potentially leading to misinterpretation of performance of different wind turbine designs. Instead, an interpretation of power coefficient as the “relative capture area” of a wind turbine is suggested, analogous to the relative capture width parameter for ocean wave energy conversion devices. Such an interpretation gives a more physically coherent picture of wind turbine performance and provides a more pragmatic measure of performance, one that can also be applied to other wind machine designs.
BibTeX:
@Proceedings{Adams2021_2,
  title     = {A {R}e-examination of {P}ower {C}oefficient as a {M}easure of {P}erformance for {H}orizontal {A}xis {W}ind {T}urbines},
  year      = {2021},
  month     = {aug},
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  abstract  = {Linear momentum theory as applied to horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) provides perhaps the most useful basis for understanding their operation. In particular, the theoretically derived expression for power coefficient represents a convenient measure of performance, as well as provides insight into optimal operating conditions. The typical interpretation of power factor as an energy conversion efficiency, however, especially in the context of converting the “power in the wind” to a power output, has several conceptual difficulties. In this paper it is argued that the energy efficiency interpretation of power coefficient can be misleading, potentially leading to misinterpretation of performance of different wind turbine designs. Instead, an interpretation of power coefficient as the “relative capture area” of a wind turbine is suggested, analogous to the relative capture width parameter for ocean wave energy conversion devices. Such an interpretation gives a more physically coherent picture of wind turbine performance and provides a more pragmatic measure of performance, one that can also be applied to other wind machine designs.},
  author    = {Thomas M. Adams and Benjamin E. Mertz},
  doi       = {10.11159/htff21.136},
  journal   = {Proceedings of the 7th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM'21)},
}
  
2021 Adams, T. M. (2021, March). Eductionism: Anti-reductionism for a Better Life [Conference presentation]. Rose Talks, Terre Haute, IN.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [Video]
Abstract: Reductionism-the view that phenomena can be understood only through breaking things down into constituent parts-so permeates Western scientific thought that we scarcely take notice when we assume this vantage point. Touching on philosophy, science, engineering, and even psychedelic music played on the ukulele, this talk will encourage us to purposely challenge our reductionist tendencies. In so doing, we will see how we can provide opportunities for new discoveries, innovation, and a generally happier life.
BibTeX:
@Misc{Adams2021_1,
  author   = {T. M. Adams},
  month    = mar,
  title    = {Eductionism: {A}nti-reductionism for a {B}etter {L}ife},
  year     = {2021},
  abstract = {Reductionism-the view that phenomena can be understood only through breaking things down into constituent parts-so permeates Western scientific thought that we scarcely take notice when we assume this vantage point. Touching on philosophy, science, engineering, and even psychedelic music played on the ukulele, this talk will encourage us to purposely challenge our reductionist tendencies. In so doing, we will see how we can provide opportunities for new discoveries, innovation, and a generally happier life.},
  url      = {https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcO8fFExGRU},
}
  
2020 Adams, T. M. (2020, September). Generalist Scholarship and Engineering Education [Keynote address]. International Conference on Fluid Flow and Thermal Science, Virtual Conference.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI] [Video]
Abstract: Generalist scholarship may be thought of as an approach to research in which simple models and methods are intentionally employed in order to ascertain trends, correlations, and high-level concepts that are difficult to discern when relying solely on more specialized methods. In the twenty-first century, however, the advent of sophisticated software and continually increasing computational power have generally led engineering—practice, research, and education alike—away from broad based analysis and towards more and more specialized techniques. And though specialized research can deliver a high degree of detail and quantitative accuracy in modeling systems and processes, physical insights and high-level connections are increasingly in peril of going overlooked. In this talk, we explore the tremendous opportunities that exist for generalist scholarship to complement specialist research with a particular emphasis on the thermalfluid sciences. Furthermore, given that the tools that characterize the methods of generalist scholarship are acquired early in a technical education, we will examine the potential to enhance engineering education through research at the generalist level, as well as to fill the pipeline of future engineering scholars.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams_2020,
  author    = {Thomas M. Adams},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the International Conference on Fluid Flow and Thermal Science ({ICFFTS}{\textquotesingle}20)},
  title     = {Generalist {S}cholarship and {E}ngineering {E}ducation},
  year      = {2020},
  month     = {sep},
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  abstract  = {Generalist scholarship may be thought of as an approach to research in which simple models and methods are intentionally employed in order to ascertain trends, correlations, and high-level concepts that are difficult to discern when relying solely on more specialized methods. In the twenty-first century, however, the advent of sophisticated software and continually increasing computational power have generally led engineering—practice, research, and education alike—away from broad based analysis and towards more and more specialized techniques. And though specialized research can deliver a high degree of detail and quantitative accuracy in modeling systems and processes, physical insights and high-level connections are increasingly in peril of going overlooked. In this talk, we explore the tremendous opportunities that exist for generalist scholarship to complement specialist research with a particular emphasis on the thermalfluid sciences. Furthermore, given that the tools that characterize the methods of generalist scholarship are acquired early in a technical education, we will examine the potential to enhance engineering education through research at the generalist level, as well as to fill the pipeline of future engineering scholars.},
  doi       = {10.11159/icffts20.02},
}
  
student.jpg 2020 Bomar A.J. and Adams TM (2020, April). A Robust Analytic Model of Folded Fin Cold Plates for Automotive Power Electronics Cooling, Proceedings of 5th Thermal and Fluids Engineering Conference (TFEC). New Orleans, LA. (pp. 633-647) Begellhouse.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: The development of high power density automotive power electronics led to newer, and often more costly, cooling solutions in pursuit of maintaining desirable operating temperatures. This has been followed by a shift of focus from proving new technologies to producing low-cost electric and hybrid-electric vehicles accessible to more customers, resulting in renewed interest in low-cost solutions to power electronics cooling. Folded fins are one such solution, common on mass produced heat exchangers, and have been applied in legacy power electronics cooling systems. This paper presents an analytic model that allows for an expedient, robust, and accurate thermal analysis of a folded fin cold plate. The model combines empirical and algebraic approaches to capture heat transfer effects in a 3-dimensional, multi-phase domain including the transistor, cold plate, and coolant. In practice, computational analysis is often used in place of empirical and mathematical methods. The methods described here have the advantages of allowing for broader and more efficient trade studies due to vastly shorter solution times and providing junction temperature estimates within 5 °C of computational methods, and therefore complement computational methods. Lastly, use of the model to design a cold plate for an insulated-gate bipolar transistor cooling system in a hybrid electric vehicle is described. The model is used to explore manufacturability constraints, fouling criteria, assembly methods, fin types, and materials of construction. The result is a design that provides a comparable operating junction temperature in the IGBTs with a significant cost reduction compared to a more exotic legacy design.
BibTeX:
@inproceedings{Bomar_2020,
  author = {Andrew J. Bomar and Thomas M. Adams},
  title = {A Robust Analytic Model of Folded Fin Cold Plates for Automotive Power Electronics Cooling},
  booktitle = {Proceeding of 5th Thermal and Fluids Engineering Conference (TFEC)},
  publisher = {Begellhouse},
  year = {2020},
  doi = {10.1615/TFEC2020.trn.032440}
}
2019 Adams T. M. (2019, August 15-17), Microscale Thermal-Fluids: Still Plenty of Room at the Bottom [Keynote Address]. 6th International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Lisbon, Portugal.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: Richard Feynman's iconic 1959 talk "There's Plenty of Room at the Bottom: An Invitation to Enter a New Field of Physics" articulated a vision of miniaturization in which fantastic mechanisms and processes could be realized. These included the creation of miniature swallowable surgical robots and arrays of macroscale machines that themselves create smaller scale machines, eventually leading to massively parallel microscale factories. Though scholars debate the direct impact of Feynman's talk on the development of micro/nanotechnology, no doubt the ensuing six decades have seen tremendous advances in the evolution of this vision. In the last three to four decades in particular we have witnessed tremendous progress in the advent of microscale thermal-fluid systems, including the development of microscale cooling mechanisms for microelectronics, "Lab-on-a-chip" technology for chemical and biological assays, DNA amplification, microscale heat exchangers, and micro-shocktubes to name just a few. In addition to the explosion of creativity and innovation sparked by the lack of off-the-shelf solutions at the microscale, we have experienced a renaissance of sorts of otherwise well-established fields/theories in thermal-fluids. In this talk, we will explore some of the milestones of microscale thermal-fluids so far as well as discuss the tremendous opportunities still awaiting us, not only in terms of microfabrication paradigms, but also—and perhaps more importantly—new approaches to analysis and modelling steeped in the fundamentals. Indeed, there is still plenty of room at the bottom.
BibTeX:
@inproceedings{Adams_2019,
  author = {Thomas Adams},
  title = {Microscale Thermal-Fluids: Still Plenty of Room at the Bottom},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the 5th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering},
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  year = {2019},
  url = {https://avestia.com/MCM2019_Proceedings/files/paper/Keynote - Dr.Adams.pdf},
  doi = {10.11159/htff19.01}
}
2019 Adams, T. M. (2019, April 30). Reflections of a Former White Boy: Thoughts on Privilege in America [Conference presentation]. Rose-Hulman Lightening Talks 24, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN.
[BibTeX]
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{,
  author    = {T. M. Adams},
  booktitle = {Rose-Hulman Lightening Talks 24},
  title     = {Reflections of a {F}ormer {W}hite {B}oy: {T}houghts on {P}rivilege in {A}merica},
  year      = {2019},
  address   = {Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN},
  month     = apr,
  
student.jpg award.png 2018 Adams, T. M., Collins, J. T., Fernando, J., Griffin, S. M., Kreft, R. L., Kuok, H., McFarland, A. E., and Wasylewski, E. J. (2018, August). Role of Dimensionless Parameters in Modelling MEMS Hot-arm Actuators, Proceedings of the 4th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM'18), Madrid, Spain.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: The current work presents a novel approach to analysing traditional U-shaped MEMS hot-arm actuators via the use of dimensional analysis. Two dimensionless groups, a thermo-electro parameter and a geometric parameter, are proposed in order to describe actuator behaviour, and the interpretation of each is discussed. Deflection data for six different actuators collected from five different studies are correlated using the dimensionless groups, resulting in a semi-empirical relationship that offers good predictability. In general, actuator deflection shows a strong linear dependence on the thermo-electro parameter, with large values of the geometric parameter resulting in smaller deflections.
BibTeX:

@InProceedings{Adams2018,
  author    = {Thomas M. Adams and Jason T. Collins and Johann Fernando and Sarah M. Griffin and Robert L. Kreft and Helio Kuok and Alexander E. McFarland and Ethan J. Wasylewski},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the 4th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering},
  title     = {Role of {D}imensionless {P}arameters in {M}odelling {MEMS} {H}ot-arm {A}ctuators},
  year      = {2018},
  month     = aug,
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  abstract  = {The current work presents a novel approach to analysing traditional U-shaped MEMS hot-arm actuators via the use of dimensional analysis. Two dimensionless groups, a thermo-electro parameter and a geometric parameter, are proposed in order to describe actuator behaviour, and the interpretation of each is discussed. Deflection data for six different actuators collected from five different studies are correlated using the dimensionless groups, resulting in a semi-empirical relationship that offers good predictability. In general, actuator deflection shows a strong linear dependence on the thermo-electro parameter, with large values of the geometric parameter resulting in smaller deflections.},
  doi       = {10.11159/htff18.148},
}

  
2017 Adams, T. M. (2017, June). Dimensional Analysis of a Hot-arm Actuator, Proceedings of the 3rd World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering, Rome, Italy.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: In the present work, a dimensional analysis of hot-arm actuation is performed. Several dimensionless pi groups result,including the Biot number; a thermo-electro parameter combining voltage, electrical resistivity, and thermal expansion coefficient; and a number of geometric parameters. The dimensional analysis proves that there is no way to incorporate the dimensions of Young’s modulus in the problem, verifying suspicions voiced in a small number of earlier works. Furthermore, the thermo-electro parameter validates the results of many models and experiments in which deflection is directly proportional to both the thermal expansion coefficient and the square of the applied voltage. Lastly, the small Biot numbers (0.001 < Bi < 0.2) encountered in hot arm actuators indicate that a lumped-element approach to thermal modelling is legitimate, and therefore capable of producing accurate results.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams_2017,
  author    = {Thomas M. Adams},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the 3rd World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering},
  title     = {Dimensional {A}nalysis of a {H}ot-arm {A}ctuator},
  year      = {2017},
  month     = {jun},
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  abstract  = {In the present work, a dimensional analysis of hot-arm actuation is performed. Several dimensionless pi groups result,including the Biot number; a thermo-electro parameter combining voltage, electrical resistivity, and thermal expansion coefficient; and a number of geometric parameters. The dimensional analysis proves that there is no way to incorporate the dimensions of Young’s modulus in the problem, verifying suspicions voiced in a small number of earlier works. Furthermore, the thermo-electro parameter
validates the results of many models and experiments in which deflection is directly proportional to both the thermal expansion coefficient and the square of the applied voltage. Lastly, the small Biot numbers (0.001 < Bi < 0.2) encountered in hot arm actuators indicate that a lumped-element approach to thermal modelling is legitimate, and therefore capable of producing accurate results.},
  doi       = {10.11159/htff17.170},
  url       = {http://avestia.com/MCM2017_Proceedings/files/paper/HTFF/HTFF_170.pdf},
}
  
2016 Adams, T. M. (2016, August 22-23). On the Scholarship of Generalization [Keynote address]. 3rd International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow. Budapest, Hungary.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: In recent decades the advent of advanced software and continually increasing computational power has led to the highest degree of detail and accuracy in the modeling of physical systems and processes that has ever been seen. When the default strategy is to use such techniques, however, it can become difficult to discern physical trends, and important relationships between variables (or lack thereof) may be overlooked altogether. When engaged in the "scholarship of generalization," as opposed to specialization, the researcher purposely analyses processes at hierarchically higher conceptual levels in search of these connections. What may be lost in terms of accuracy in the resulting predictive models is regularly made up for by the vastly increased physical insight that is gained. Oftentimes interdisciplinary in nature, the broad-based approach of the scholarship of generalization well-complements the traditionally deep and narrow perspective of specialization.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2016_2,
  author    = {T. M. Adams},
  booktitle = {International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow},
  title     = {On the {S}cholarship of {G}eneralization},
  year      = {2016},
  address   = {Budapest, Hungary},
  month     = aug,
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  abstract  = {In recent decades the advent of advanced software and continually increasing computational power has led to the highest degree of detail and accuracy in the modeling of physical systems and processes that has ever been seen. When the default strategy is to use such techniques, however, it can become difficult to discern physical trends, and important relationships between variables (or lack thereof) may be overlooked altogether. When engaged in the "scholarship of generalization," as opposed to specialization, the researcher purposely analyses processes at hierarchically higher conceptual levels in search of these connections. What may be lost in terms of accuracy in the resulting predictive models is regularly made up for by the vastly increased physical insight that is gained. Oftentimes interdisciplinary in nature, the broad-based approach of the scholarship of generalization well-complements the traditionally deep and narrow perspective of specialization.},
  doi       = {10.11159/htff16.2},
}
  
2016 Adams, T. M. (2016, August). Improved Method for Converting Equivalent Sand-grain Roughness to Hazen-Williams Coefficient, Proceedings of the 2nd World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM'16), Budapest, Hungary.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: A method of predicting the Hazen-Williams roughness coefficient from knowledge of equivalent sand-grain roughness is presented. An equation resulting from combining the Hazen-Williams, Darcy-Weisbach, and Colebrook-White equations is used as the basis of the relationship. This equation in turn is used as the theoretical foundation for correlating existing experimental data for sandgrain roughness and Hazen-Williams coefficient. Previously developed methods have not incorporated such data. The result is a correlation that shows very good agreement between accepted and predicted values, providing an improved means by which conversion of sand-grain roughness to Hazen-Williams coefficient can be accomplished where values for one or the other are not readily available.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2016_1,
  author    = {Thomas M. Adams},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the 2nd World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering},
  title     = {Improved {M}ethod for {C}onverting {E}quivalent {S}and-grain {R}oughness to {H}azen-{W}illiams {C}oefficient},
  year      = {2016},
  month     = aug,
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  abstract  = {A method of predicting the Hazen-Williams roughness coefficient from knowledge of equivalent sand-grain roughness is presented. An equation resulting from combining the Hazen-Williams, Darcy-Weisbach, and Colebrook-White equations is used as the
basis of the relationship. This equation in turn is used as the theoretical foundation for correlating existing experimental data for sandgrain roughness and Hazen-Williams coefficient. Previously developed methods have not incorporated such data. The result is a correlation that shows very good agreement between accepted and predicted values, providing an improved means by which conversion of sand-grain roughness to Hazen-Williams coefficient can be accomplished where values for one or the other are not readily available.},
  doi       = {10.11159/htff16.119},
  url       = {https://avestia.com/MCM2016_Proceedings/files/paper/HTFF/119.pdf},
}
  
student.jpg award.png 2015 Adams, T., Chang, E., Stevens, B., and Thompson, M. (2015, July). Analysis of Shock-plugs in Quasi-one-dimensional Compressible Flow, Proceedings of the World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM 2015), Barcelona, Spain.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [URL]
Abstract: With the continuing miniaturization of technology happening a rapid pace, more and more compressible flows are occurring at the microscale. At the small length scales encountered in such microflows, the standard assumption of shockwaves having infinitesimal thickness may no longer apply. In this paper we therefore suggest the existence of "shock-plugs," standing normal shocks with finite thickness. We model shock-plugs using the same methods and assumptions as seen in standard normal shockwave analysis. The inclusion of shock thickness necessitates the inclusion of additional parameters in the analysis, however, namely differing upstream and downstream cross sectional areas, as well the pressure on the sidewalls adjacent to the shock. Predictions for changes in Mach number, temperature, pressure, and entropy are presented, all of which show deviation from conventional shockwave analysis. The models presented here may provide better estimates of shock properties in microscale applications.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2015,
  author    = {Thomas Adams and Eric Chang and Benjamin Stevens and Matthew Thompson},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM 2015)},
  title     = {Analysis of {S}hock-plugs in {Q}uasi-{O}ne-{D}imensional {C}ompressible {F}low},
  year      = {2015},
  address   = {Barcelona, Spain},
  month     = jul,
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  abstract  = {With the continuing miniaturization of technology happening a rapid pace, more and more compressible flows are occurring at the microscale. At the small length scales encountered in such microflows, the standard assumption of shockwaves having infinitesimal thickness may no longer apply. In this paper we therefore suggest the existence of "shock-plugs," standing normal shocks with finite thickness. We model shock-plugs using the same methods and assumptions as seen in standard normal shockwave analysis. The inclusion of shock thickness necessitates the inclusion of additional parameters in the analysis, however, namely differing upstream and downstream cross sectional areas, as well the pressure on the sidewalls adjacent to the shock. Predictions for changes in Mach number, temperature, pressure, and entropy are presented, all of which show deviation from conventional shockwave analysis. The models presented here may provide better estimates of shock properties in microscale applications},
  url       = {https://avestia.com/MCM2015_Proceedings/files/papers/HTFF328.pdf},
}
  
2014 Adams, T. M. (2014, June). Breve introducción a sistemas micro-electro-mecánicos (MEMS) [Conference presenation]. II Jornada 2014, Superación y trabajo en equipo, P.P. Ingeniería Mecánica, Mecánica Eléctrica y Mecatrónica, Universidad Católica Santa María, Arequipa, Perú.
[BibTeX]
BibTeX:
@Proceedings{Adams2014_2,
  title   = {Breve introducción a sistemas micro-electro-mecánicos ({MEMS})},
  year    = {2014},
  address = {P.P. Ingeniería Mecánica, Mecánica Eléctrica y Mecatrónica, Universidad Católica Santa María, Arequipa, Perú},
  month   = jun,
}
  
2014 Adams, T. M. (2014, June). A brief introduction to micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)[Presentation]. Coloquios de física 2014-1, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, San Miguel, Lima, Perú.
[BibTeX] [URL]
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2014_1,
  author  = {T. M. Adams},
  title   = {A brief introduction to micro-electro-mechanical systems ({MEMS})},
  year    = {2014},
  address = {Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, San Miguel, Lima, Perú},
  month   = jun,
  url     = {https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B87Kp8wASLJJQVlyazdfWmlJb2M/},
}
  
2013 Adams, T.M. (2013, October). Why Engineering Is Like Playing the Doors on Solo Ukulele [Conference presentation], TEDx RoseHulman, Terre Haute, IN.
[BibTeX] [Video]
BibTeX:
@Misc{Adams2013,
  author       = {Thomas Adams},
  howpublished = {TEDx RoseHulman},
  month        = oct,
  title        = {Why {E}ngineering is {L}ike {P}laying the {D}oors on {S}olo {U}kulele},
  year         = {2013},
  url          = {http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fTrfvjccMY},
}
  
student.jpg 2012 Adams, T., C. Grant, and Watson, H. (2012). A Simple Algorithm to Relate Measured Surface Roughness to Equivalent Sand-grain Roughness, International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics, 1(1), 66-71. 
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: One of the most important resources available in the field of fluid mechanics, the Moody Chart gives Darcy friction factor as a function of Reynolds number and relative roughness. The experimentalists who generated the data correlated in the Moody Chart, however, roughened pipe surfaces by coating their internal surfaces with a monolayer of sand, the pipe wall roughness being defined as the average diameter of the sand grains. Thus, the sand-grain roughness values required for use with the Moody Chart are not derived from any direct measure of roughness using modern surface characterization equipment, such as an optical profilometer. Using direct measurements of surface roughness in fluid flow calculations may therefore result in significant error. In this paper we present a simple algorithm with which various measured surface roughness parameters can be converted to equivalent sand-grain roughness. For nearly every surface roughness value converted to equivalent sand-grain roughness using the algorithm, better agreement with fluid flow experiments is seen over using the raw roughness value.
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams2012,
  author    = {Thomas Adams and Christopher Grant and Heather Watson},
  journal   = {International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics},
  title     = {A {S}imple {A}lgorithm to {R}elate {M}easured {S}urface {R}oughness to {E}quivalent {S}and-grain {R}oughness},
  year      = {2012},
  abstract  = {One of the most important resources available in the field of fluid mechanics, the Moody Chart gives Darcy friction factor as a function of Reynolds number and relative roughness. The experimentalists who generated the data correlated in the Moody Chart, however, roughened pipe surfaces by coating their internal surfaces with a monolayer of sand, the pipe wall roughness being defined as the average diameter of the sand grains. Thus, the sand-grain roughness values required for use with the Moody Chart are not derived from any direct measure of roughness using modern surface characterization equipment, such as an optical profilometer. Using direct measurements of surface roughness in fluid flow calculations may therefore result in significant error. In this paper we present a simple algorithm with which various measured surface roughness parameters can be converted to equivalent sand-grain roughness. For nearly every surface roughness value converted to equivalent sand-grain roughness using the algorithm, better agreement with fluid flow experiments is seen over using the raw roughness value.},
  doi       = {10.11159/ijmem.2012.008},
  publisher = {Avestia Publishing},
  url       = {https://ijmem.avestia.com/2012/008.html},
}
  
student.jpg 2012 Grant, C., Adams, T., and Watson, H. (2012, August). A Simple Algorithm to Relate Measured Surface Roughness to Equivalent Sand-grain Roughness. Proceedings of International Conference on Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics, Ottawa, ON, Canada. 
[Abstract] [BibTeX]
Abstract: One of the most important resources available in the field of fluid mechanics, the Moody Chart gives Darcy friction factor as a function of Reynolds number and relative roughness. The experimentalists who generated the data correlated in the Moody Chart, however, roughened pipe surfaces by coating their internal surfaces with a monolayer of sand, the pipe wall roughness being defined as the average diameter of the sand grains. Thus, the sand grain roughness values required for use with the Moody Chart are not derived from any direct measure of roughness using modern surface characterization equipment, such as an optical profilometer. Using direct measurements of surface roughness in fluid flow calculations may therefore result in significant error. In this paper we present a simple algorithm with which various measured surface roughness parameters can be converted to equivalent sand grain roughness. For all surface roughness values converted to equivalent sand-grain roughness using the algorithm, better agreement with fluid flow experiments is seen over using the raw roughness values.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{,
  author    = {C. Grant and T. Adams and H. Watson},
  booktitle = {roceedings of International Conference on Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics,},
  title     = {A {S}imple {A}lgorithm to {R}elate {M}easured {S}urface {R}oughness to {E}quivalent {S}and-grain {R}oughness},
  year      = {2012},
  address   = {Ottawa, ON, Canada},
  month     = aug,
  abstract  = {One of the most important resources available in the field of fluid mechanics, the Moody Chart gives Darcy friction factor as a function of Reynolds number and relative roughness. The experimentalists who generated the data correlated in the Moody Chart, however, roughened pipe surfaces by coating their internal surfaces with a monolayer of sand, the pipe wall roughness being defined as the average diameter of the sand grains. Thus, the sand grain roughness values required for use with the Moody Chart are not derived from any direct measure of roughness using modern surface characterization equipment, such as an optical profilometer. Using direct measurements of surface roughness in fluid flow calculations may therefore result in significant error. In this paper we present a simple algorithm with which various measured surface roughness parameters can be converted to equivalent sand grain roughness. For all surface roughness values converted to equivalent sand-grain roughness using the algorithm, better agreement with fluid flow experiments is seen over using the raw roughness values.},
}
  
2011 Adams, T. M. (2011, August 18-19). Formative Classroom Assessment Techniques [Conference presentation]. Five Years of Learning Together, CPSE 2011 Teaching Workshop, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN.
[BibTeX]
Abstract: Funky abstract.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2011_2,
  author    = {T. M. Adams},
  booktitle = {{F}ive {Y}ears of {L}earning {T}ogether, {CPSE} 2011 {T}eaching {W}orkshop},
  title     = {Formative {C}lassroom {A}ssessment {T}echniques},
  address   = {, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN},
  month     = aug,
}
  
student.jpg 2011 Adams, T. M. and Raghunandan, A. (2011, June). Modified Bernoulli Equation for Use with Combined Electro-Osmotic and Pressure-Driven Microflows, Proceedings of Canadian Congress of Applied Mechanics (CANCAM) 2011, Vancouver, BC, Canada. 
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [URL]
Abstract: In this paper we present electro-osmotic (EO) flow within a more traditional fluid mechanics framework. Specifically, the modified Bernoulli equation (viz. the energy equation, the mechanical energy equation, the pipe flow equation, etc.) is shown to be applicable to EO flows if an electrical potential energy term is also included. The form of the loss term in the modified Bernoulli equation is unaffected by the presence of an electric field; i.e., the loss term still represents the effect of wall shear stress, which can be represented via a friction factor. We show that that the friction factor for pure EO flow (no applied pressure gradient) varies inversely with the Reynolds number based on the Debeye length of the electric double layer. Expressions for friction factor for combined laminar pressure-driven and EO flow are also given. These are shown to be functions of Reynolds number and geometry, as well as the relative strength of the applied electric field to the applied pressure gradient.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2011,
  author    = {Adams, T. M. and Raghunandan, A.},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Canadian Congress of Applied Mechanics (CANCAM) 2011, Vancouver, BC, Canada, June 5-9, 2011},
  title     = {Modified {B}ernoulli {E}quation for {U}se {W}ith {C}ombined {E}lectro-{O}smotic and {P}ressure-{D}riven {M}icroflows},
  year      = {2011},
  abstract  = {In this paper we present electro-osmotic (EO) flow within a more traditional fluid mechanics framework. Specifically, the modified Bernoulli equation (viz. the energy equation, the mechanical energy equation, the pipe flow equation, etc.) is shown to be applicable to EO flows if an electrical potential energy term is also included. The form of the loss term in the modified Bernoulli equation is unaffected by the presence of an electric field; i.e., the loss term still represents the effect of wall shear stress, which can be represented via a friction factor. We show that that the friction factor for pure EO flow (no applied pressure gradient) varies inversely with the Reynolds number based on the Debeye length of the electric double layer. Expressions for friction factor for combined laminar pressure-driven and EO flow are also given. These are shown to be functions of Reynolds number and geometry, as well as the relative strength of the applied electric field to the applied pressure gradient.},
}
  
2010 Adams, T. M. and Dee, K. C. (2010, August 16-17). Classroom Assessment Techniques [Conference presentation]. Designing Effective Learning Environments, CPSE 2010 Teaching Workshop, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN.
[BibTeX]
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2010_3,
  author       = {Adams, T. M. and Dee, K. C.},
  booktitle    = {Designing Effective Learning Environments, CPSE 2010 Teaching Workshop},
  title        = {. Classroom {A}ssessment {T}echniques},
  year         = {2010},
  address      = {Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN},
  month        = aug,
  organization = {Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology},
}
  
student.jpg 2010 Adams, T. M., Bomar, A. J., and Kirkpatrick, S. (2010, June). Lumped Element Model for a MEMS Hot Arm Actuator, Proceedings of the CSME Forum 2010, Victoria, BC, Canada. 
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [URL]
Abstract: A simplified lumped element model for a MEMS hot arm actuator is presented. The model assumes the actuator is characterized by only two temperatures, one for the hot arm and one for the cold arm, which are calculated based on the inputted electrical power. A mechanical model that uses the results of the lumped thermal model as inputs to predict tip deflection is also presented. Deflection results are compared to previously published data with good agreement, suggesting that a simplified thermal analysis of hot arm actuators can suffice for modeling purposes.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2010_2,
  author    = {Adams, T. M. and Bomar, A. J. and Kirkpatrick, S.},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the CSME Forum 2010, Victoria, BC, Canada, June 7-10, 2010},
  title     = {Lumped element model for a {MEMS} hot arm actuator},
  year      = {2010},
  abstract  = {A simplified lumped element model for a MEMS hot arm actuator is presented. The model assumes the actuator is characterized by only two temperatures, one for the hot arm and one for the cold arm, which are calculated based on the inputted electrical power. A mechanical model that uses the results of the lumped thermal model as inputs to predict tip deflection is also presented. Deflection results are compared to previously published data with good agreement, suggesting that a simplified thermal analysis of hot arm actuators can suffice for modeling purposes},
}
  
2010 Adams, T. M., Layton, R. A., and Taylor, C. M. (2010, June). Raising Expectations for the Quality of Graphical Elements in Reports and Presentations. Proceedings of the 2010 National Capstone Design Conference, Boulder, CO.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [URL]
Abstract: Engineering professionals and students are often unaware of, and therefore neglect, principles of design, rhetoric, and data display in preparing the illustrations, graphs, tables, equations, and schematics they include in reports and presentations. We have developed two learning modules to address this issue in the junior year. The first module is a two-hour workshop given in a mechanical engineering measurement systems course and the second module is a component of a technical and professional communications course. We present an overview of these activities. The goal of the modules is to expand the skill set and critical-thinking ability of our undergraduates. The goal of this paper is to share our approach, prompt awareness and discussion, and encourage adaptation in other programs..
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2010_1,
  author    = {Thomas M. Adams and Richard A. Layton and Corey M. Taylor},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the 2010 National Capstone Design Conference, Boulder, CO},
  title     = {Raising {E}xpectations for the {Q}uality of {G}raphical {E}lements in {R}eports and {P}resentations},
  year      = {2010},
  abstract  = {Engineering professionals and students are often unaware of, and therefore neglect, principles of design, rhetoric, and data display in preparing the illustrations, graphs, tables, equations, and schematics they include in reports and presentations. We have developed two learning modules to address this issue in the junior year. The first 
module is a two-hour workshop given in a mechanical engineering measurement systems course and the second module is a component of a technical and professional communications course. We present an overview of these activities. The goal of the modules is to expand the skill set and critical-thinking ability of our undergraduates. 
The goal of this paper is to share our approach, prompt awareness and discussion, and encourage adaptation in other programs.},
  url       = {http://capstonedesigncommunity.org/sites/default/files/proceedings_papers/Adams_Layton_Taylor.pdf},
}
  
2010 Layton, R. L. and Adams, T. M. (2010, June). On Teaching the Operating Principles of Piezoresistive Sensors. 2010 Annual Conference & Exposition Proceedings, Louisville, KY. ASEE Conferences.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: We present an approach to teaching the operating principles of piezoresistive sensors that addresses many of the limitations of the treatments encountered in most instrumentation and MEMS textbooks. Namely, we direct the presentation to an undergraduate audience rather than a research-level audience and at the same time we avoid oversimplifying the development of the principles of operation. To this end, we make a discussion of bridge analysis central to the development, use a strain-formulation for gage factor and piezoresistor placement rather than the more common stress-formulation, and keep the associated physics and mathematics at an appropriate level for sophomore engineering undergraduates. In so doing, we maintain accessibility and coherence throughout. We present several sets of learning objectives and strategies for teaching the material that can be tailored to suit the needs of a particular course.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Layton,
  author    = {Richard Layton and Thomas Adams},
  booktitle = {2010 Annual Conference {\&} Exposition Proceedings},
  title     = {On {T}eaching the {O}perating {P}rinciples of {P}iezoresistive {S}ensors},
  year      = {2010},
  month     = jun,
  publisher = {{ASEE} Conferences},
  abstract  = {We present an approach to teaching the operating principles of piezoresistive sensors that addresses many of the limitations of the treatments encountered in most instrumentation and MEMS textbooks. Namely, we direct the presentation to an undergraduate audience rather than a research-level audience and at the same time we avoid oversimplifying the development of the principles of operation. To this end, we make a discussion of bridge analysis central to the development, use a strain-formulation for gage factor and piezoresistor placement rather than the more common stress-formulation, and keep the associated physics and mathematics at an appropriate level for sophomore engineering undergraduates. In so doing, we maintain accessibility and coherence throughout. We present several sets of learning objectives and strategies for teaching the material that can be tailored to suit the needs of a particular course.},
  doi       = {10.18260/1-2--16635},
  url       = {https://peer.asee.org/16635},
}
  
2008 Adams, T. and White, A. (2008). Macroscopic conservation equation based model for surface tension driven flow. In M. Rahman and C. A. Brebbia (Eds.), Advances in Fluid Mechanics VII , Vol. 59 (pp. 133-141) WIT Press.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: Due to the small scales encountered in MEMS and microfluidic devices, surface tension can play a significant role in the device physics. As such, many microscale devices have exploited surface tension forces to serve as passive valves and to move fluids. Surprisingly, few models for surface tension driven flow seem to have been developed.

In this study a theoretical mathematical model for surface tension driven flowthrough a capillary of an arbitrary cross section is derived. The model is based on macroscopic mass and momentum balances, allowing for different physical insights to be drawn compared to approaches starting with the Navier-Stokes equations. Expressions for flow length and velocity are derived for both frictionless flow and for flow with wall friction. For frictionless flow the result of surface tension force is to increase the momentum of the fluid by constantly drawing mass into the capillary at a constant characteristic velocity. In the case of flow with wall friction, a characteristic time scale can be calculated. For times on the order of the characteristic time scale, the flow velocity exponentially decays from the characteristic velocity, whereas for larger times the velocity shows an inverse power law dependence. The model well predicts flow behaviour for previously published experiments in which the characteristic time is small. For systems in which the characteristic time is larger, the model may show improved performance over previous models.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2008,
  author    = {T. M. Adams and A. R. White},
  booktitle = {Advances in Fluid Mechanics {VII}},
  title     = {Macroscopic conservation equation based model for surface tension driven flow},
  year      = {2008},
  editor    = {M. Rahman and C. A. Brebbia},
  month     = {may},
  pages     = {133-141},
  publisher = {{WIT} Press},
  volume    = {59},
  abstract  = {Due to the small scales encountered in MEMS and microfluidic devices, surface tension can play a significant role in the device physics. As such, many microscale devices have exploited surface tension forces to serve as passive valves and to move fluids. Surprisingly, few models for surface tension driven flow seem to have been developed.
 In this study a theoretical mathematical model for surface tension driven flowthrough a capillary of an arbitrary cross section is derived. The model is based on macroscopic mass and momentum balances, allowing for different physical insights to be drawn compared to approaches starting with the Navier-Stokes equations. Expressions for flow length and velocity are derived for both frictionless flow and for flow with wall friction. For frictionless flow the result of surface tension force is to increase the momentum of the fluid by constantly drawing mass into the capillary at a constant characteristic velocity. In the case of flow with wall friction, a characteristic time scale can be calculated. For times on the order of the characteristic time scale, the flow velocity exponentially decays from the characteristic velocity, whereas for larger times the velocity shows an inverse power law dependence. The model well predicts flow
behaviour for previously published experiments in which the characteristic time
is small. For systems in which the characteristic time is larger, the model may
show improved performance over previous models.},
  doi       = {10.2495/afm080131},
  url       = {https://www.witpress.com/elibrary/wit-transactions-on-engineering-sciences/59/18835},
}
  
student.jpg 2006 Deckert, M., Kirkpatrick, S., Adams, T., Wheeler, E., and Siahmakoun, A. (2006, June). SMA Energy-Scavenger MEMS Device. Proceedings of SEM 2006, St. Louis, MO.
[BibTeX]
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Deckert2006,
  author    = {Deckert, M. and Kirkpatrick, S. and Adams, T. and Wheeler, E. and Siahmakoun, A.},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of SEM 2006, St Louis, MO, June 4-7, 2006},
  title     = {{SMA} {E}nergy-{S}cavenger {MEMS} {D}evice},
  year      = {2006},
}
  
2006 Siahmakoun, A., Adams, T., Wheeler, E., and Kirkpatrick, S. (2006, April 17-21). Undergraduate MEMS-Nano Courses for Everyone [Conference presentation]. MRS 2006 Conference, San Francisco, CA.
[BibTeX]
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Siahmakoun2006,
  author    = {Siahmakoun, A. and Adams, T. and Wheeler, E. and Kirkpatrick, S.},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of MRS 2006 Conference, San Francisco, CA, April 17-21, 2006},
  title     = {Undergraduate {MEMS}-{N}ano {C}ourses for {E}veryone},
  year      = {2006},
}
  
student.jpg 2005 Adams, T. M., Kirkpatrick, S. R., Wang, Z., and Siahmakoun, A. (2005). NiTi Shape Semory Alloy Thin Films Deposited by Co-evaporation. Materials Letters, 59(10), 1161-1164. 
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: NiTi shape memory alloy thin films from separate evaporation sources are produced. One micron films with a gradient of Ni-Ti ratios are fabricated at temperatures of 200°C with a deposition rate of 8.3 Å/s. A single e-beam evaporation system combined with a thermal evaporation source is used to create a co-evaporation process. The evaporation rate of the nickel in the evaporation source is allowed to develop a steady state, and then the e-beam evaporation of the titanium is controlled to maintain the correct rate and desired ratio. The resulting thin films that exhibit the two-way shape memory effect had approximately a 50% concentration of titanium as measured by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams_2005,
  author    = {Adams, T. M. and Kirkpatrick, S. R. and Wang, Z. and Siahmakoun, A.},
  journal   = {Materials Letters},
  title     = {{NiTi} {S}hape {S}emory {A}lloy {T}hin {F}ilms {D}eposited by {C}o-evaporation},
  year      = {2005},
  month     = {apr},
  number    = {10},
  pages     = {1161--1164},
  volume    = {59},
  abstract  = {NiTi shape memory alloy thin films from separate evaporation sources are produced. One micron films with a gradient of Ni-Ti ratios are fabricated at temperatures of 200 °C with a deposition rate of 8.3 Å/s. A single e-beam evaporation system combined with a thermal evaporation source is used to create a co-evaporation process. The evaporation rate of the nickel in the evaporation source is allowed to develop a steady state, and then the e-beam evaporation of the titanium is controlled to maintain the correct rate and desired ratio. The resulting thin films that exhibit the two-way shape memory effect had approximately a 50% concentration of titanium as measured by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.matlet.2004.12.019},
  publisher = {Elsevier {BV}},
}
  
2004 Siahmakoun, A., Kirkpatrick, S., and Adams, T. (2004, November 17-18). Shaped memory alloy TiNi heat actuator [Conference presentation]. Workshop on Nano and Microsystems Technology and Metrology, Redstone Arsenal, AL.
[BibTeX]
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Siahmakoun2004,
  author    = {Siahmakoun, A. and Kirkpatrick, S. and Adams, T.},
  booktitle = {Workshop on {N}ano and {M}icrosystems {T}echnology and {M}etrology, {R}edstone {A}rsenal, {AL}, {N}ov. 17-18, 2004},
  title     = {Shaped memory alloy {T}i{N}i heat actuator},
  year      = {2004},
  month     = nov,
}
  
award.png 2004 Adams, T. M. (2004, June). An Undergraduate MEMS Course for Everyone. 2004 Annual Conference Proceedings, Salt Lake City, UT. ASEE Conferences. 
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: Miniaturization is becoming a dominant theme in a large variety of technologies. With this increased miniaturization comes the need to familiarize undergraduate students from a variety of science and engineering students with such technology. Unfortunately, most courses currently offered in micro electrical mechanical systems (MEMS) target graduate-level students or senior- level students with highly specialized backgrounds. Recently, eight faculty members from five different academic departments at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology collaborated to develop an introductory course in MEMS open to all science and engineering majors of junior standing. This course was team-taught and included a laboratory component, giving students hands-on experience with the processes involved in the fabrication of MEMS devices. This paper presents the results to date of this multidisciplinary faculty team’s efforts to make MEMS more accessible to a larger audience. In particular, the paper documents the development of the new course and its content, as well as the continuing evolution of its implementation.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams2004,
  author    = {T. M. Adams},
  booktitle = {2004 Annual Conference Proceedings},
  title     = {An {U}ndergraduate {MEMS} {C}ourse for {E}veryone},
  year      = {2004},
  month     = jun,
  publisher = {{ASEE} Conferences},
  abstract  = {Miniaturization is becoming a dominant theme in a large variety of technologies. With this increased miniaturization comes the need to familiarize undergraduate students from a variety of science and engineering students with such technology. Unfortunately, most courses currently offered in micro electrical mechanical systems (MEMS) target graduate-level students or senior- level students with highly specialized backgrounds. Recently, eight faculty members from five different academic departments at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology collaborated to develop an introductory course in MEMS open to all science and engineering majors of junior standing. This course was team-taught and included a laboratory component, giving students hands-on experience with the processes involved in the fabrication of MEMS devices. This paper presents the results to date of this multidisciplinary faculty team’s efforts to make MEMS more accessible to a larger audience. In particular, the paper documents the development of the new course and its content, as well as the continuing evolution of its implementation.},
  doi       = {10.18260/1-2--13371},
  url       = {https://peer.asee.org/13371},
}
  
student.jpg 2004 Wang, Z., Kirkpatrick, S. R., Adams, T., and Siahmakoun, A. (2004, June). TiNi MEMS Heat Engine. Proceedings of SEM X International Congress & Exposition on Experimental and Applied Mechanics, Costa Mesa, CA. 
[Abstract] [BibTeX]
Abstract: Preliminary models have been developed to estimate the heat transfer and structural mechanics characteristics of a proposed shape memory alloy (SMA) MEMS heat engine consisting of a temperature gradient driven oscillating TiNi cantilever beam. The heat transfer model predicts the expected frequency of cantilever oscillations by assuming one-dimensional axial conduction within the cantilever while incorporating variable property information to account for the austenite/martensite transformation within the TiNi. The structural mechanics model predicts cantilever tip deflection by assuming that any strain above the proportional limit is recoverable and can therefore be assigned a second modulus of elasticity. Standard assumptions for beams undergoing small deflection are otherwise employed. For a 100 µm long cantilever 20 µm wide and 2 µm thick, the model predicts a cycling time of 3-6 ms, corresponding to a frequency of 100-300 hz for hot and cold temperature reservoirs of 100°C and 20°C, respectively. The model further predicts that a 0.03 mN point load applied to the tip of the cantilever will result in a deflection of 4.5 µm. These values compare well with the existing literature on SMA-MEMS actuators and suggest the feasibility of producing such a SMA MEMS heat engine.
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Wang2004,
  author    = {Wang, Z. and Kirkpatrick, S. R. and Adams, T. and Siahmakoun, A.},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of SEM X {I}nternational {C}ongress & {E}xposition on {E}xperimental and {A}pplied {M}echanics},
  title     = {{T}i{N}i {MEMS} {H}eat {E}ngine},
  year      = {2004},
  month     = jun,
  publisher = {Bethel : Society for Experimental Mechanics},
  abstract  = {Preliminary models have been developed to estimate the heat transfer and structural mechanics characteristics of a proposed shape memory alloy (SMA) MEMS heat engine consisting of a temperature gradient driven oscillating TiNi cantilever beam. The heat transfer model predicts the expected frequency of cantilever oscillations by assuming one-dimensional axial conduction within the cantilever while incorporating variable property information to account for the austenite/martensite transformation within the TiNi. The structural mechanics model predicts cantilever tip deflection by assuming that any strain above the proportional limit is recoverable and can therefore be assigned a second modulus of elasticity. Standard assumptions for beams undergoing small deflection are otherwise employed. For a 100 µm long cantilever 20 µm wide and 2 µm thick, the model predicts a cycling time of 3-6 ms, corresponding to a frequency of 100-300 hz for hot and cold temperature reservoirs of 100oC and 20oC, respectively. The model further predicts that a 0.03 mN point load applied to the tip of the cantilever will result in a deflection of 4.5 µm. These values compare well with the existing literature on SMA-MEMS actuators and suggest the feasibility of producing such a SMA MEMS heat engine.},
}
  
1999 Adams, T. M., Dowling, M. F., Abdel-Khalik, S. I., and Jeter, S. M. (1999) Applicability of Traditional Turbulent Single-phase Forced Convection Correlations to Non-circular Microchannels, International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, 42(23), 4411-4415.
[BibTeX] [DOI]
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams_1999-3,
  author    = {Adams, T. M. and Dowling, M. F. and Abdel-Khalik, S. I. and Jeter, S. M.},
  journal   = {International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer},
  title     = {Applicability of {T}raditional {T}urbulent {S}ingle-phase {F}orced {C}onvection {C}orrelations to {N}on-circular {M}icrochannels},
  year      = {1999},
  month     = {dec},
  number    = {23},
  pages     = {4411--4415},
  volume    = {42},
  doi       = {10.1016/S0017-9310(99)00102-7},
  publisher = {Elsevier {BV}},
  url       = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0017931099001027},
}
  
1999 Adams, T. M., Ghiaasiaan, S. M., and Abdel-Khalik, S. I. (1999, October). Enhancement of Liquid Forced Convection Heat Transfer in Microchannels Due to the Release of Dissolved Noncondensables. International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, 42(19), 3563-3573
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: An experimental investigation addressing the effect of the release of dissolved noncondensables on the heat transfer in a long, heated microchannel subject to subcooled liquid forced convection was conducted. The convection heat transfer coefficients near the exit of a copper microchannel with 0.76 mm inner diameter and 16 cm heated length, subject to forced-flow cooling by subcooled water, were measured. The range of experimental parameters were: wall heat flux=0.5–2.5 MW/m2; liquid velocity=2.07 to 8.53 m/s; channel exit pressure=5.9 bar. Experiments were performed with degassed water and water saturated with air. The convection heat transfer coefficients obtained with degassed water were systematically under predicted by the widely-used Dittus–Boelter correlation for turbulent pipe flow. The presence of dissolved air in water could increase the heat transfer coefficients by as much as 17%, despite the fact that the maximum increase in the coolant velocity due to the noncondensable gas release was only a few percent. The heat transfer enhancement increased with increasing the heat flux and decreasing the liquid velocity.
BibTeX:
@Article{ADAMS19993563,
  author    = {Adams, T. M. and Ghiaasiaan, S. M. and Abdel-Khalik, S. I.},
  journal   = {International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer},
  title     = {Enhancement of {L}iquid {F}orced {C}onvection {H}eat {T}ransfer in {M}icrochannels {D}ue to the {R}elease of {D}issolved {N}oncondensables},
  year      = {1999},
  issn      = {0017-9310},
  month     = {oct},
  number    = {19},
  pages     = {3563-3573},
  volume    = {42},
  abstract  = {An experimental investigation addressing the effect of the release of dissolved noncondensables on the heat transfer in a long, heated microchannel subject to subcooled liquid forced convection was conducted. The convection heat transfer coefficients near the exit of a copper microchannel with 0.76 mm inner diameter and 16 cm heated length, subject to forced-flow cooling by subcooled water, were measured. The range of experimental parameters were: wall heat flux=0.5–2.5 MW/m2; liquid velocity=2.07 to 8.53 m/s; channel exit pressure=5.9 bar. Experiments were performed with degassed water and water saturated with air. The convection heat transfer coefficients obtained with degassed water were systematically under predicted by the widely-used Dittus–Boelter correlation for turbulent pipe flow. The presence of dissolved air in water could increase the heat transfer coefficients by as much as 17%, despite the fact that the maximum increase in the coolant velocity due to the noncondensable gas release was only a few percent. The heat transfer enhancement increased with increasing the heat flux and decreasing the liquid velocity.},
  doi       = {https://doi.org/10.1016/S0017-9310(99)00023-X},
  keywords  = {Microchannel, Forced convection, Noncondensables, Two-phase flow, Heat transfer, Enhancement, Void fraction},
  publisher = {Elsevier {BV}},
  url       = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S001793109900023X},
}
  
1999 Adams, T. M., Ghiaasiaan, S. M., and Abdel-Khalik, S. I. (1999). Effect of Dissolved Ncondensables on Hydrodynamics of Microchannels Subject to Liquid Forced Convection. Journal of Enhanced Heat Transfer, 6, 395-403.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: The impact of the desorption of dissolved noncondensables on the hydrodynamics of heated, long microchannels subject to liquid forced convection is theoretically studied. A one-dimensional model, based on the solution of mass, momentum, energy and a noncondensable species mass conservation equations, is developed. Parametric calculations representing typical microchannel geometric and flow conditions are then performed. It is shown that the desorption of noncondensables can lead to a gas-liquid two-phase flow and therefore enhance the fluid velocity in microchannels rather significantly, with the enhancement becoming larger as the channel length to diameter ratio is increased. Desorption of the noncondensable and its accompanying evaporation, furthermore, may lead to choking.
BibTeX:
	@Article{Adams_1999-2,
  author    = {T. M. Adams and S. M. Ghiaasiaan and S. I. Abdel-Khalik},
  journal   = {Journal of Enhanced Heat Transfer},
  title     = {Effect of {D}issolved {N}condensables on {H}ydrodynamics of {M}icrochannels {S}ubject to {L}iquid {F}orced {C}onvection},
  year      = {1999},
  number    = {6},
  pages     = {395--403},
  volume    = {6},
  abstract  = {The impact of the desorption of dissolved noncondensables on the hydrodynamics of heated, long microchannels subject to liquid forced convection is theoretically studied. A one-dimensional model, based on the solution of mass, momentum, energy and a noncondensable species mass conservation equations, is developed. Parametric calculations representing typical microchannel geometric and flow conditions are then performed. It is shown that the desorption of noncondensables can lead to a gas-liquid two-phase flow and therefore enhance the fluid velocity in microchannels rather significantly, with the enhancement becoming larger as the channel length to diameter ratio is increased. Desorption of the noncondensable and its accompanying evaporation, furthermore, may lead to choking.},
  doi       = {10.1615/JEnhHeatTransf.v6.i6.10},
  publisher = {Begell House},
}

  
award.png 1999 Adams, T. M., Ghiaasiaan, S. M., & Abdel-Khalik, S. I. (1999, August). Effect of dissolved noncondensables on liquid forced convection in microchannels. Proceedings of the 33rd national heat transfer conference NHTC'99, Albuquerque, NM. American Society of Mechanical Engineers.  
[Abstract] [BibTeX]
Abstract: A method of quantifying the effect of noncondensable desorption on the forced flow of liquids in microchannels subject to a uniform heat flux has been developed. The model is based on the solution of the differential forms of the mass, momentum, energy and noncondensable species conservation equations assuming that the liquid is fully saturated with the noncondensable at the channel inlet. Parametric calculations for conditions encountered in typical microchannel experiments were performed and the results presented. The resulting calculations show that significant noncondensable desorption can take place in microchannel flow resulting in increased liquid velocities and enhanced heat transfer. Experiments were also performed with a 0.76 mm diameter microchannel using both fully degassed water and water saturated with air at the channel inlet. The measured heat transfer coefficients for the air-saturated data were significantly higher than for the fully degassed data in regions where the model predicts significant noncondensable desorption. The forced turbulent convective flow of water in microchannels offers a wide variety of applications including
BibTeX:
@InProceedings{Adams1999-1,
  author    = {Adams, T M, Ghiaasiaan, S M, & Abdel-Khalik, S I},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of the 33rd national heat transfer conference NHTC'99, Albuquerque, NM},
  title     = {Effect of dissolved noncondensables on liquid forced convection in microchannels},
  year      = {1999},
  month     = aug,
  publisher = {American Society of Mechanical Engineers},
  abstract  = {A method of quantifying the effect of noncondensable desorption on the forced flow of liquids in microchannels subject to a uniform heat flux has been developed. The model is based on the solution of the differential forms of the mass, momentum, energy and noncondensable species conservation equations assuming that the liquid is fully saturated with the noncondensable at the channel inlet. Parametric calculations for conditions encountered in typical microchannel experiments were performed and the results presented. The resulting calculations show that significant noncondensable desorption can take place in microchannel flow resulting in increased liquid velocities and enhanced heat transfer. Experiments were also performed with a 0.76 mm diameter microchannel using both fully degassed water and water saturated with air at the channel inlet. The measured heat transfer coefficients for the air-saturated data were significantly higher than for the fully degassed data in regions where the model predicts significant noncondensable desorption. The forced turbulent convective flow of water in microchannels offers a wide variety of applications including},
}
  
1998 Adams, T. M., Abdel-Khalik, S. I., Jeter, S. M., & Qureshi, Z. H. (1998). An experimental investigation of single-phase forced convection in microchannels. International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, 41(6-7), 851-857.
[Abstract] [BibTeX] [DOI]
Abstract: Turbulent, single-phase forced convection of water in circular microchannels with diameters of 0.76 and 1.09 mm has been investigated. The data show that the Nusselt numbers for the microchannels are higher than those predicted by traditional large channel correlations. Based on the data obtained in this investigation, along with earlier data for smaller diameter channels, a generalized correlation for the Nusselt number for turbulent, single-phase, forced convection in circular microchannels has been developed. The diameter, Reynolds number, and Prandtl number ranges are 0.102–1.09 mm, 2.6×103-2.3×104, and 1.53–6.43, respectively. With a confidence level of greater than 95%, differences between experimental and predicted Nusselt number values are less than ± 18.6%.
BibTeX:
@Article{ADAMS1998851,
  author   = {Adams, T. M. and Abdel-Khalik, S. I. and Jeter, S. M. and Qureshi, Z. H.},
  journal  = {International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer},
  title    = {An experimental investigation of single-phase forced convection in microchannels},
  year     = {1998},
  issn     = {0017-9310},
  number   = {6-7},
  pages    = {851-857},
  volume   = {41},
  abstract = {Turbulent, single-phase forced convection of water in circular microchannels with diameters of 0.76 and 1.09 mm has been investigated. The data show that the Nusselt numbers for the microchannels are higher than those predicted by traditional large channel correlations. Based on the data obtained in this investigation, along with earlier data for smaller diameter channels, a generalized correlation for the Nusselt number for turbulent, single-phase, forced convection in circular microchannels has been developed. The diameter, Reynolds number, and Prandtl number ranges are 0.102–1.09 mm, 2.6 × 103-2.3 × 104, and 1.53–6.43, respectively. With a confidence level of greater than 95%, differences between experimental and predicted Nusselt number values are less than ± 18.6%.},
  doi      = {10.1016/s0017-9310(97)00180-4},
  url      = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0017931097001804},
}
1997 Adams, T. M., Abdel-Khalik, S. I., Jeter, S. M., & Qureshi, Z. H. (1997, August). An Experimental Investigation of Single-Phase Forced Convection in Microchannels. (M. S. El Genk, Ed.) AIChE Symposium Series - Heat Transfer, Baltimore 1997, 93, 87-94.
[BibTeX]
BibTeX:
@Article{Adams1997,
  author    = {Adams, T. M. and Abdel-Khalik, S. I. and Jeter, S. M. and Qureshi, Z. H.},
  journal   = {AIChE Symposium Series - Heat Transfer, Baltimore 1997},
  title     = {An {E}xperimental {I}nvestigation of {S}ingle-{P}hase {F}orced {C}onvection in {M}icrochannels},
  year      = {1997},
  month     = aug,
  pages     = {87-94},
  volume    = {93},
  editor    = {El Genk, Mohamed S.},
  publisher = {American Institute of Chemical Engineers.},
  series    = {AIChE Symposium Series},
}
  

student.jpg: Includes student coauthors   award.png: Best paper winner
  ⇧ 
Patent:
2008 Kirkpatrick, S. R., Siahmakoun, A., Adams, T. M., Wang, Z, A Shape Memory Alloy MEMS Heat Engine, (Patent 7,444,812)
  
Workshop/short course participation:
2021 Webinar: Ultra-White Paints for Full Daytime Sub-Ambient Radiative Cooling, sponsored by Indiana Society of Professional Engineers, November 11, 2021
2020 Virtual Workshop on COVID-19: Challenges in Research and Education, sponsored by the American Society of Thermal and Fluids Engineers (ASTFE)
2013 Workshop on Sustainability, American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Annual Conference and Exposition 2013
2013 Indiana Collegiate Press Association Convention (ICPA) convention on April 13, 2013, Bloomington, IN
2012 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) 43rd AIAA Thermophysics Conference
2011 Five Years of Learning Together, Center for the Practice and Scholarship of Education (CPSE) 2011 Teaching Workshop, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, August 18-19, 2011
2010 Designing Effective Learning Environments, Center for the Practice and Scholarship of Education (CPSE) 2010 Teaching Workshop, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology CPSE, August 16-17, 2010
2009 Energy Harvesting Short Course, IEEE 15th Annual Conference on Solid-State Sensors, Actuators and Microsystems, Denver CO June 21-25, 2009
2008 Faculty advisor, Nelis, M. R. and Park, G. (2008, November). Use of a Collocated Sensor/Actuator for Vibration Suppression and Structural Health Monitoring. Poster session presented at 2008 Science and Energy Research Challenge (SERCh), Oakridge National Laboratory, TN.
2006 NanoBio Fluidic MEMS Workshop, Georgia Institute of Technology, June 26-29, 2006 Atlanta, GA
2005 Microscale Thermal Engineering, ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) 5th annual MEMS Technology Seminar, April 17-20, 2005, Minneapolis, MN
2003 Microfluidics Short Course, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) 3rd Annual MEMS Technology Seminar, May 19-21, 2003, Los Angeles, California
2002 MEMS Workshop, Microfabrication Applications Laboratory, July 8, 2002, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
2002 Analysis and Design of Microchannel Heat Exchangers Short Course at the International Compressor Engineering Conference and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Conference, July 16-19, 2002, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
2002 Sharing the Learning Space, An IHETS All-Partners Conference, April 03, 2002, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
2001 MEMS (Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems) workshop presented by IntelliSense Corporation, February 8-9, 2001, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN
2000 NSF Engineering Education Scholars Workshop co-sponsored by University of New Hampshire, Syracuse University and Howard University, Jul 30-Aug 2, 2000, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH
2000 Workshop on Process Education™ presented by Pacific Crest, Feb 28-Mar 1, 2000, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN
  
Other professional development:
Creation of online textbook content
2013 McGraw-Hill Higher Education: Created forty videos to accompany McGraw-Hill's Schaum's Outline series for Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics titles.
  
Continuing education course
2012 Developed and taught continuing education course on fluid mechanics for professional engineers as part of the Evonik Degussa Professional Engineering Recertification Seminar, Feb 29, 2012, West Lafayette, IN
  
Consulting
Rose-Hulman Ventures
2007 Effect of Ultrasound on Solid Microparticles: Worked at with a team of students on a project sponsored by Southwest Michigan First (SWMF) Life Science Fund. The project entailed experimental work aimed at assessing the feasibility of using ultrasound in the destruction of solid microparticles with applications in the medical field.
2000 Collaboration with Dr. Sam V. Shelton of Georgia Institute of Technology
Created models of compressible flow of steam through a vent pipe and to provide estimates of pressure, temperature and Mach numbers in a power plant setting. Information was for use in a product liability case.
  
Textbook reviews
2021 Reviewer for the textbook Reviewer for the textbook Fundamentals of Thermodynamics by Michael J. Moran, Howard N. Shapiro, Daisie D. Boettner, and Margaret B. Bailey
2021 Reviewer for the textbook Essentials of Heat Transfer by Massoud Kaviany
2002-2003 Reviewer for the textbook Fundamentals of Thermal and Fluid Systems by Y. Çengel and R. Turner, comments and suggestions for which are incorporated in the later editions of the text
2001 Reviewer for chapters for the second edition of the heat transfer textbook Heat Transfer, A Practical Approach by Y. Çengel
  ⇧ 
Professional service:
Scientific committees, publication reviews
2021 Reviewer, Surface and Interface Analysis
2021 Reviewer, Academia Letters
2020 Scientific committee, 7th International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Prague, Czech Republic, Agust 16-18, 2020
2019 Scientific committee, 6th International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Lisbon, Poprtugal, Agust 15-17, 2019
2018 Scientific committee, 5th International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Madrid, Spain, August 16-18, 2018
2017 Scientific committee, 4th International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Rome, Italy, June 8-10, 2017
2016 Scientific committee, 3rd International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Budapest, Hungary, August 22-23, 2016
2013 Reviewer, Computers in Education
2010 Reviewer, Langmuir
2010 Reviewer, National Capstone Design Conference, Boulder, CO
2003 Reviewer, Heat Transfer Engineering Journal
2002 Reviewer, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Summer Heat Transfer Conference (2003), Las Vegas, NV, Microchannel Heat Transfer Session
2001 Reviewer, International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition (IMECE-2002), MEMS and Nanotechnology Symposium
2000 Reviewer, International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition (IMECE-2001), Heat Transfer in Multiphase Systems Session
Reviewer, ICONE 8 - 8th International Conference on Nuclear Engineering
  
Review panels
2013 Research Initiation Grants in Engineering Education (RIGEE), National Science Foundation Panel
2002 Rater, Rose-Hulman student RosE-Portfolios
2001 Rater, Rose-Hulman student RosE-Portfolios
  
External promotion and tenure reviews
2022 External reviewer for promotion, Valparaiso University
2021 External reviewer for promotion, University of New Haven
2020 External reviewer for promotion and tenure, University of Kentucky (Paducah Campus)
2014 External reviewer for promotion and tenure, The Petroleum Institute, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
2010 External reviewer for promotion and tenure, Rowan University
  
Internal institutional service:
Thesis/project committees, Rose-Hulman
2019 Thesis committee member, Mechanical Engineering master's degree student Joseph Hubach for his project thesis entitled "Solar Tracking Using a Parallel Manipulator Mechanism to Achieve Two-Axis Position Tracking"
2013 Project committee member, Engineering Management degree master's degree student John Hollingshead for his project entitled "Approaches to Developing and Managing an Engineering Firm in the Energy Services Industry"
2012 Thesis committee member, Mechanical Engineering master's degree student Julie Fisher for the thesis entitled "Detecting Subsurface Layers Using Thermal Wave Techniques"
2009 Thesis committee member, Optical Engineering master's degree student Ryan Snyder for the thesis entitled "The Design and Characterization of MEMS Interferometric Sensing"
2005 Thesis committee member, Biomedical Engineering master's degree student Saylan Lukas for the thesis entitled "Selective Protein Adsorption on Microtextured P-type and N-type Silicon Wafers"
2004 Thesis committee member, Optical Engineering master's degree student Christina Bauer for the thesis entitled "Optical Tweezers"
2003 Thesis committee member, Mechanical Engineering master's degree student James Laser for the thesis entitled "Particulate Containment Device for Industrial Paving Equipment"
  

Institute committees, commissions, and task forces, Rose-Hulman
2022-2023 Member, Culture of Integrity Implementation Committee
2020-2021 Member Safety, Security, and Traffic Committee
2019-2020 Secretary, Promotion, Tenure, and Retention Committee
2017-2019 Member, Promotion, Tenure, and Retention Committee
2015-2017 Faculty Representative to the Board of Trustees for Academic Affairs
2014-2015 Chair, Service Awards Committee
2012-2013 Chair, Service Awards Committee
2012-2013 Member, International Programs and Global Studies Committee
2008-2013 Member, Performing Arts Committee
2008-2012 ME Department representative, Faculty Affairs Committee
2010-2011 Member, Search Committee for Vice President of Academic Affairs
2010-2011 Member, Online Learning Feasibility Study Commission
2009-2010 Member, Search Committee for Vice President of Academic Affairs
2009 Faculty representative, Interim Presidential Search Committee
2007-2008 Faculty representative, Academic Governance Study Commission
2003-2004 Secretary, Rules and Discipline Committee
2003-2004 Member, Performing Arts Committee
1999-2002 Member, Graduate Studies Committee
1999-2000 Member, Performing Arts Committee
  
Mechanical Engineering Department service, Rose-Hulman
2022-2023 Chair, Faculty Development Committee, Department of Mechanical Engineering
2022-2023 Member, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, Department of Mechanical Engineering
2018-2020 Member, International Studies Committee
2015-2017 Chair, Committee for the Improved Assessment of Teaching
2015-2017 Chair, Faculty Development Committee
2012-2013 Member, Faculty Development Committee
2009-2013 Member, ME Graduate Studies Committee
2010-2011 Member, Faculty Development Committee

Advising, Rose-Hulman
1999-present Academic advisor, Mechanical Engineering majors. Approximately 26 students annually
2000-present Faculty advisor, Kappa Chapter of Theta Xi Fraternity
2013-present Faculty advisor, The Rose Thorn newspaper
2006-present Faculty advisor and instructor, Rose-Hulman Yoga Club
2008-2017 Faculty advisor, Rose-Hulman Swing Dance Club
2004-2012 Faculty advisor, Rose-Hulman Ballroom Dancing Club
2003-2006 Faculty advisor, Sigma Lambda Chapter of Pi Tau Sigma

Other institutional service
2023 External Consultant, Department of Physics, Optical Engineering, and Engineering Physics Department Head Search.
2019 Leader book club discussion group, Creating Wicked Students: Designing Courses for a Complex World.
2018 Panelist, "Crucial Conversations," Rose-Hulman Leadership Education & Development (LEAD) Program.
2017 Faculty-led trip to Peru. Led an eight-day educational trip to Peru for eight RHIT Spanish language students.
2016-2017 Faculty member, Operation Catapult
2011-2013 Op-ed contributor, The Rose Thorn newspaper
2009-2013 Faculty member, Operation Catapult
2012-2013 Playwright, Rose-Hulman Drama Club 24 Hour Play Festival
2006-2010 Playwright, Rose-Hulman Drama Club 24 Hour Play Festival
2008 Host, Rose-Hulman Student Activity Board Mother's Weekend event
2006-2007 Faculty member, Operation Catapult
2005, 2006 Performer, Engineers in Concert, Rose-Hulman Fine Arts series, Solo guitar performances
2006 Host, Rose-Hulman Student Activity Board Mother's Weekend event
2000-2004 Faculty member, Operation Catapult
2004 Host, Rose-Hulman Student Activity Board Mother's Weekend event
2003 Contributor, Rose Women's Club Rose Community Art Show, Origami exhibit
2003 Performer, Engineers in Concert, Rose-Hulman Fine Arts series, Solo guitar performance
2001 Contributor, Rose Women's Club Rose Community Art Show, Origami exhibit
2000, 2001 Performer, Engineers in Concert, Rose-Hulman Fine Arts series, Solo guitar performances
  ⇧ 
Honors and awards:
2023 Best paper award for "Alternate Formulation for Entropy Minimization in Forced Internal Convection," 10th International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, London, England, 2023
2019-present Herman A. Moench Distinguished Professor, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2019 Board of Trustees Outstanding Scholar Award, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2018 Best paper award for "Role of Dimensionless Parameters in Modelling MEMS Hot-arm Actuators," 5th International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Madrid, Spain, 2018
2015 Best paper award, "Analysis of Shock-plugs in Quasi-one-dimensional Compressible Flow," 2nd International Conference on Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, Barcelona, Spain, 2015
2005 Dean's Outstanding Teacher Award, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2004 Best paper award, "An Undergraduate MEMS Course for Everyone," 2004 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition, Salt Lake City, UT, June 20-23, 2004
2001 Delta Delta Delta Faculty Member of the Month, Mar-Apr 2001
2000 Favorite Faculty Member - Operation Catapult, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
1999 Best paper award for "Effect of Dissolved Noncondensables on Liquid Forced Convection in Microchannels", 1999 ASME AIChE National Heat Transfer Conference, Albuquerque, NM
1990 Edward MacClean Award for Engineering Science and Mechanics , Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Member, Pi Tau Sigma (Mechanical Engineering Honorary Fraternity)
Member, Pi Mu Epsilon (Mathematics Honorary Fraternity)
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