Vol. VIII JULY, 1914 No. 7 MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE’ " u * * k - v .'^L * 1 '• s * j ! i r*K - f J'V* fo. 7 > BULLETIN EDUCATION FOR ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING MIDDLEBURY, VERMONT PUBLISHED BY THE COLLEGE SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER. NOVEMBER. DECEMBER. JANUARY. FEBRUARY. APRIL, AND JULY EDUCATION for ENGINEERING MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE ^$5 MIDDLEBURY, VERMONT Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2017 with funding from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Alternates https://archive.org/details/educationforengiOOmidd CONTENTS. Instructors .... 4 Establishment and aim of the Department - 5 Types of students .... 6 Pre-vocational courses for engineers - - 7 The Six Year Plan ... 8 Cultural value of engineering studies - 9 Practical value of engineering - - 10 Methods of Instruction (supplementary training) 11 Adviser for engineering students - - 12 Minors in engineering - - - 13 Plan of study for Pre-vocational course - 14 Courses in engineering - - - 16 Admission ... 19 DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING. INSTRUCTORS IN REQUIRED COURSES. Phelps Nash Swett, S. B. Assistant Professor of Engineering ( Civil and Sanitary') Arthur Franklin Barnes, B. S. Assistant Professor of Engineering (. Mechanical and Electrical) Charles Baker Wright, A.M., L. H.D. Professor of Rhetoric and English Literature William Wesley McGilton, A. M. Professor of Chemistry Ernest Calvin Bryant, S. B. Baldwin Professor of Physics Everett Skillings, A. M. Professor of German Duane Leroy Robinson, A. M. Assistant Professor of French George Hoffman Cresse, A. M. Assistant Professor of Mathematics DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING. Establishment of the Department* The Department of Engineering in Middlebnry College is the natural outgrowth of courses which have been given for many years at Middlebury in drawing and surveying. With the growth of the college this work became sufficiently extensive to justify the formation of a separate department in 1910, when elementary courses in civil and sanitary engineering were offered. The needs of the depart- ment demanded an additional instructor in 1913, and the work was correspondingly enlarged to include courses in mechanical and electrical engineering. Aim of the Department* In publishing the following announcement of the courses in engineering, it is desirable to define clearly the aim of Middlebury College and the character of the work offered. This bulletin describes the work that has been deemed appropriate for a department of engineering in a college of liberal arts. Such a department does not purport to be, and it should not be misunderstood to attempt the work of, a technical institution or an advanced school of engineering, nor does it assume the character of a college of engineer- ing in a university. 6 MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE Types of Students. Among the students who come to Middlehury there are at least two classes of men who make a strong and perfectly reasonable demand on the col- lege for certain courses in engineering. They are, first, those who intend to pursue their education beyond college, along technical lines, but who, in order to do this, must anticipate while in college a part of the work of the technical school. The needs of such men determine almost absolutely the minimum requirements of an engineering course in a liberal arts college, and the courses which are outlined in this bulletin have been very carefully designed to enable such students to gain admission to junior standing in the best technological schools, while at the same time meeting the general cultural requirements of the college. There is a second class of students, who find in engineering courses the stimulus to liberal thought and servicable effort that is so necessary to true cul- ture and to useful living. Men need, for the upbuild- ing and betterment of rural communities, the knowl- edge of applied arts no less than of pure sciences. Such men need courses like those offered by the department of engineering for cultural purposes as well as for vocational ends, — a need very different from that of the first class described. These different types of students will find their needs provided for by the plans of study outlined in this bulletin. EDUCATION FOR ENGINEERING 7 Pre-vocational Courses for Engineers. The ideal plan of preparation for engineering includes graduation both from a collegiate and from an engineering institution. The present day de- mands a broad, cultural education for engineers who are to attain the highest distinction. Such is the emphatic opinion of many men eminent in the pro- fession. Professor Burr of Columbia declares : “It has become almost or quite imperative that educational training purely as an engineer should be preceded by the prior training of a college education.” At Har- vard, Yale, and Columbia engineering has been made a graduate course in conformity to this idea. The Bulletin of the Sibley College of Engineering, at Cornell, says: “Since the work in the regular four years course in this college is almost wholly technical, the student before entering the college should have a thorough general education, and, if possible, the training of a liberal college course.” But with many young men two hindrances stand in the way of spending four years in college and four years in the technical school, as suggested by the authorities just quoted ; one is the time, the other the expense. Hence there has developed at the univer- sities a six-year plan, in which the academic and the technical courses are combined. 8 middlebury college The Six- Year Plan* In offering courses to meet the needs of students who expect to continue their studies at a technical school, Middlebury is following the recent trend of education for the engineering profession and doing what other colleges, e. g. Bowdoin, have done for some time, i. e., giving the student the opportunity to secure certain courses belonging to a general and liberal education and to complete his technical studies, both in six years. Middlebury graduates who have taken the pre-vocational courses in Engin- eering as outlined in this bulletin may enter the Junior year of the best technical schools without ex- amination. Such an arrangement has been concluded with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Cornell Uni- versity. It is in simple justice to her students that Mid- dlebury offers this opportunity. She cannot ask her students to place themselves at a disadvantage in preparing for life as engineers. The scope of work outlined has been determined only after careful con- sultation with the heads of several of the most impor- tant engineering institutions in the East, and it em- bodies the advice and suggestions made by them. Although Middlebury has not the equipment of the larger technical schools, the plan of teaching allows the instructors to utilize for tests and demon- strations plants of various types in and near Middle- bury which are being operated on a commercial basis, and which therefore are not subject to the limitations EDUCATION FOR ENGINEERING 9 and disadvantages of merely theoretical demonstration plants. Students of engineering are able further to enhance the benefit of their courses by suitable vaca- tion employments, which adds to their experience the invaluable element of training. In an institution of the size of Middlebury the student comes into direct personal contact with teachers of high rank. This college, located in a small town, offers an exceptional opportunity to students of limited means desirous of securing an education. Cultural Value of Engineering Studies, It is not alone in developing engineers that a department of engineering is valuable to college students. This department aims to be of use to those men who wish to study engineering for its educa- tional value as well as to those who are going to follow engineering as a profession. Scientific study is recognized as a great stimulus to the imagination. President-emeritus Eliot of Harvard, in his address on “The New Definition of the Cultivated Man” before the New England Edu- cational Association, said : “The imagination is the greatest of the human powers, no matter in what field it works, in art or literature, in mechanical inven- tion, in science, government, commerce or religion; and the training of the imagination is, therefore, far the most important part of education.” IO middlebury college Practical Values of Engineering* The taking up of engineering studies along with a college course is of special value to those who may pursue callings more or less affiliated with engineer- ing or to those who may follow vocations in which engineering problems arise. In many fields of man- ufacturing and industry, in agriculture, in the admin- istration of public offices of various kinds, these prob- lems are arising. In fact, in any business where there are questions of construction or machinery, applica- tion or development of power, the creation of condi- tions to increase productiveness and efficiency, it is imperative that those who are connected with it in any way should possess those qualifications which come chiefly from the study of engineering. One of the most attractive and important branches of chemistry today is that which is associat- ed with engineering. The field opening in this line is in the executive positions of the chemical industry where a man not only needs chemistry, but must possess a general engineering education as well. There are greater opportunities for men with this training than for men trained in chemistry alone. Another important work of the department is the training of teachers of mathematics and the sciences in the practical application of these sciences. For the student expecting to teach along these lines this type of training is very essential. It broadens his viewpoint, and shows him the use of the theoret- ical study. It gives him material to illustrate his principles and to interest his pupils. EDUCATION EOR ENGINEERING II Methods of Instruction. Bach student’s course is carefully planned so as to provide continuous, systematic development. The purpose of engineering teaching is to impart the fun- damental principles of the science and make these principles a portion of the student’s working capital. Enough application of theory is given to enable each student to know how to attack engineering problems. Practical application of engineering principles are exemplified by laboratory work in the central heating plant of the college, by power-plant tests in and near Middlebury, and by hydraulic work on Otter River. To provide more extensive field work in surveying, a spring camp is conducted for a week as a supple- ment to the regular survey work. Supplementary T raining. Shop training is secured by summer employment in manufacturing plants, a method that acquaints the student with the factory and shop-work as it is and enables him to rub off the marks of the fresh graduate. This plan also gives the manufacturer a chance to judge applicants and thus paves the way for employment after graduation. To create interest in the study of engineering and illustrate practice, inspection trips are taken to developments, pow r er-plants and shops. Promi- nent engineers are asked to address the students upon topics in their special fields. These trips and meet- 12 middlebury college ings are held under the auspices of The Engineers’ Club, a student organization formed to stimulate interest in engineering at Middlebury. Adviser for Engineering Students* All students coming to Middlebury for engineer- ing should consult Assistant Professor Swett, who acts as advisor for engineering students, in order to outline properly the plan of study that will be needful in each case. The programs on pages 14-15 may be used for general guidance. These programs are out- lined on the assumption that the student presents upon entrance three years of one modern language. Where this condition is not met, the courses must be modified to fit the individual case. Students intending to specialize in engineering should pursue the degree of Bachelor of Science. The programs outlined cover the general requirements for graduation from Middlebury and for admission to the Junior year of the best technical schools; but as such schools differ in some particulars each student should become familiar with the special require- ments of the institution he intends to enter and elect such courses as meet its requirements. Candidates for honors in engineering must attain such rank as will meet the requirements for honors (see catalogue) and permit the election of six subjects in Junior and Senior years. EDUCATION FOR ENGINEERING 13 Minors in Enginering.* Students who wish engineering for its ap- plied or cultural values will do well to note the courses offered in Mechanical Drawing, Surveying, Municipal Engineering, Elements of Power Produc- tion, Elements of Electrical Engineering. A minor can be made up from these subjects, or they may be taken as free electives by students who have the pre- requisites. Men fitting themselves to teach Mathe- matics will find the courses in Mechanical Drawing, Surveying, Mechanics, and Kinetics of value; while those intending to teach Physics will profit by taking the courses in Mechanical Drawing, Surveying, Hydraulics, Electricity, and Mechanics. Teachers in general will find a knowledge of mechanical draw- ing of great practical utility, and to this end En- gineering 1 and 2 are recommended. *For definition of minor subjects of study, see catalogue. H middlebury college PLAN OF STUDY FOR PRE- VOCATIONAL COURSES IN ENGINEERING. Civil And Sanitary Engineering FRESHMAN YEAR. ist Semester. English i (A) French or German (A) Chemistry i (A) Engineering i (A) Mathematics i or ia (A) 2nd Semester. English 2 (A) French or German (A) Chemistry 2 (A) Engineering 2 (A) Mathematics 2 or 2a (A) SOPHOMORE YEAR. English 3 (B) French or German (B) Engineering 5 (B) Mathematics (Anal. Geom.) (B) Elective French or German (B) Engineering 4 (B) Engineering 6 (B) Mathematics (Diff. Cal- culus) (C) Elective JUNIOR YEAR. Chemistry 3 (B) Engineering 7 (B) Mathematics (Int. Cal- culus) (C) Physics 1 (A) Elective Chemistry 4 (B) (For Sani- tary only) Engineering 12 (B) (For Civil only) Engineering 26 (C) Physics 2 (A) Elective Elective SENIOR YEAR. Chemistry 5 (C) For San- itary only) Engineering 27 (C) (for Civil only) Physics 3 (B) Physical Measurements (C) Elective Elective Chemistry 6 (C) For Sani- tary only) Engineering 28 (C) (For Civil only) Physics 4 (B) Physical Measurements (C) Elective Elective EDUCATION FOR ENGINEERING 15 Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, FRESHMAN YEAR. 1ST SEMESTER. English 1 (A) French or German (A) Chemistry 1 (A) Engineering 1 (A) Mathematics 1 or ia (A) English 3 (B) French or German (B) Engineering 21 (B) Mathematics (Anal. Geom.) (B) Elective 2ND SEMESTER. English 2 (A) French or German (A) Chemistry 2 (A) Engineering 2 (A) Mathematics 2 or 2a (A) IRE YEAR. French or German (B) Engineering 4 (B) Engineering 22 fB) Mathematics (Diff. Calculus) (C) Elective JUNIOR YEAR. Chemistry 3 (B) Engineering 23 (B) Mathematics (Int. Calculus) (C) Physics 1 (A) Elective Engineering 24 (A) Engineering 26 (C) Physics 2 (A) Elective Elective SENIOR YEAR. Engineering 27 (C) Engineering 6 a (B) Physics 3 (B) Engineering 28 (C) Physical Measurements (C) Physics 4 (B) Elective Physical Measurements (C) Elective Elective Note : — The modern language course of Freshman year will be determined by the qualifications of the students ; after Freshman year these courses will follow in sequence, as indicated in the description of courses. For description of non-engineering subjects see catalogue. i6 middlebury college COURSES IN ENGINEERING/* Assistant Professor Swett. Assistant Professor Barnes. 1. Mechanical Drawing. A Lettering, title designing, dimensioning, geometrical prob- lems, orthographic projection, intersection and development of surfaces, tinting. Three two-hour periods. Assistant Professor Swett. 2. Mechanical Drawing. A Working drawings, detailing and dimensioning, assembly drawings, tracing and blue-printing, shading, perspective and isometric drawings. Three two-hour periods. Assistant Professor Barnes. 2a. Mechanical Drawing. A An abridged course similar to Engineering i and 2. This course can be taken only upon permission from the instructor. Three two-hour periods. Assistant Professor Barnes. Civil and Sanitary Engineering. Assistant Professor Swett. 4. Descriptive Geometry. B Problems relating to the point, line, and plane ; with the development, intersection, and representation of various sur- faces. Three two-hour periods. (Engin. 2 Math. 1.) **For a more extended description, see catalogue. A copy will be sent upon application. The letters A, B and C refer to the grading of the courses. For a full explanation of grading, see catalogue. Courses with odd numbers are given in the first semester, those with even numbers in the second semester ; pre-requisites are indicated in parantheses. A set of drawing instruments, with triangles, etc., may be rented from the department for $1.50 a semester; drawing board and T square, 50 cts. EDUCATION EOR ENGINEERING 17 5, 6. Surveying and Plotting. B Lectures, field work and drafting. The use of the chain, tape, compass, transit, and solar attachment is taught, followed by various forms of leveling instruments. Two three-hour periods. (Engin. 2, or may be taken after 1 or 2a, upon per- mission ; and Trig, at least simultaneously.) 6a. Surveying and Plotting. B A course similar to Engin. 5, 6, but intended especially for students in mechanical and electrical engineering. Two three-hour periods. (Engin. 1, or 2a, and Trig.) 7. Topography; Geodesy. C Methods of topographic and geodetic surveying ; field work and drafting room. Two three-hour periods. (Engin. 6.) 8. Railroad Engineering. C The mathematics of curves, with application to the location of highways and railroads ; methods, field work, and systematic drill in actual problems. Two three-hour periods. (Engin. 7.) 10. Stereotomy. B Application of descriptive geometry to masonry structures with plane, curved, or warped surfaces, such as intersecting arches, walls, abutments and culverts. Three two-hour periods. (Engin. 4.) 11. Municipal Engineering. Highway construction and maintenance, and water supply and sanitation. A course open to Seniors and Juniors upon per- mission from the instructor. Three periods. 12 . Theoretical Hydraulics and Applied Hydraulics. A course open to Seniors and Juniors upon permission from the instructor. Three periods. i8 middlebury college Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. Assistant Professor Barnes. 7 ,i. Machine Drawing and Sketching. B Representation, dimensioning, and specifications of machine parts ; study of standard commercial forms ; and working sketches with complete dimensions. Two three- hour periods. (Engin. 2, or 1 or 2a with permission of instructor.) 22 . Advanced Machine Drawing. B Detail and assemble drawings from sketches ; simple design- ing from observation and empiricle rule ; use of data sheets ; time keeping ; filing, and indexing. Three two-hour periods. (Engin. 21.) 23. Kinematics. B Study of motion and forms of mechanisms ; velocity and ac- celeration diagrams; instantaneous centers; belting, cams, gear teeth and gear trains; link work and valve gears; drawing-board applications. Three two-hour periods. (Trig, at least simultaneously.) 24. Elements of Power Production. A Theory and principles of operation ; steam boilers, engines, steam and hydraulic turbines ; power plant auxiliaries ; gas producers and internal combustion engines ; practical testing and calculation ; visits to power plants. Three hours per week and laboratory. 25. Elements of Electrical Engineering. B Fundamental electrical and magnetic qualities; circuits, transformers, motors, lighting, heating, generators, power stations, transmission, measurements. Three hours per week. (Phys. 2 ; Phys. 5 is desirable.) EDUCATION FOR ENGINEERING 19 26. Statistics and Kinetics. B Theory of forces and practical problems showing the applica- tion of mechanics to engineering. Three two-hour periods. (Math. 5-6, at least simultaneously.) 27, 28. Mechanics of Materials. C A study of the strength and elastic properties of materials used in engineering, with their physical and mechanical character- istics. Three hours per week. (Engin. 26.) ADMISSION. Students contemplating engineering study at Middlebury should seek entrance under the B. S. course, the requirements for which can be found in the catalogue. It is important that students con- templating such study should present Solid Geometry and three years of one modern language for entrance. For general information, prospective students are referred to the catalogue and the illustrated bul- letin, showing the campus, buildings, and college life at Middlebury. Either or both of these publica- tions may be had upon application to the Dean, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vt.