Advanced Power Systems Research Center (APS LABS)

The Michigan Technological University - APS Labs is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the American Center for Mobility (ACM)! This collaboration strengthens our shared vision of advancing mobility technologies and builds on years of impactful R&D alongside multiple partners. With our combined expertise and resources, we are ready to deliver innovative engineering services and solutions to ACM's diverse clientele. This partnership is a testament to the strong synergy between ACM and Michigan Tech—having already secured over $20 million in research funding together. As we move forward, we’re committed to accelerating the development of next-generation mobility technologies, shaping a future that’s safer, more sustainable, and secure. We are excited about the road ahead with the ACM team! #Mobility #Engineering #MichiganTech #APSLabs #SustainableTechnology #Partnership

Women in the STEM workforce have seen a prominent rise in the last few years. From 2011 to 2021, the number increased by 31%, when women made up 35% of all STEM-related fields. The APS LABS at Michigan Tech, in collaboration with Dana Incorporated and the Center for Educational Outreach at Michigan Technological University, is proud to host a Summer Youth Program (SYP) for Women in Automotive Engineering (WIAE) to contribute to this forward trajectory. APS LABS and Dana have worked with young women engineers for over a few years. The WIAE week for 2024 took place in late June, and 14 participants spent a week at the APS LABS enhancing their view of what a career in engineering looks like. The experience included not just technical activities such as understanding how an automobile functions, assembling an engine, and calibrating sensors but also conversations and discussions with women who have made a mark in the world of engineering. At the end of the week, the girls left Michigan Tech richer for the experience, with most of them considering engineering as a career option. The APS LABS, Dana and MTU hope to motivate young women in the coming years to consider the STEM fields and shape the leaders of tomorrow. #STEMEducation #WomenInEngineering #APSLabs #STEMOutreach

𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐥𝐮𝐱 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐂 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 Heat flux measurement is an important diagnostic parameter in internal combustion (IC) engines. Increased heat transfer out of the combustion chamber negatively impacts thermal efficiency, while heat transfer from the metal to the cylinder charge can increase knock propensity. One of the challenges encountered in heat flux measurement instrumentation is the carbon deposits on the surface thermocouples, which compromises data quality. The APS LABS recently concluded a project on a specially instrumented single-cylinder research engine (SCRE) to develop a metric for non-intrusively evaluating the cleanliness of the heat flux probe. Additionally, it included identifying an operating condition to burn off the carbon deposits on the probes and improve data accuracy. You can find more details on the study in the journal paper here: https://lnkd.in/eyu3HbYw The paper also includes details on two methods to calculate heat flux: • Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) method • Cook-Felderman (C-F) method This project was a part of the Light Duty Engines Consortium, a partnership between Michigan Technological University, Stellantis, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Nostrum Energy, LLC / Nostrum High Performance, Inc. The next phase of this project involves conducting tests on the SCRE to determine how heat transfer in the SI engine impacts spark knock. Watch this space for more! #ICEngines #AutomotiveInnovation #ResearchAndDevelopment #APSLABS

Want to rev up your with in-demand ICE skills? Discover the latest breakthroughs in Internal Combustion Engines with MTU and USCAR. Michigan Tech is proud to announce an expansion of graduate-level courses in the specialized area of internal combustion engines (ICE). These courses will be available on campus Michigan Technological University, as well as eventually online via the Michigan Tech Global Campus. The courses are being developed by Jeff Naber at APS Labs in collaboration with Andrea Strzelec, Ph.D., FSAE, Senior Research Scientist at USCAR (United States Council for Automotive Research). Enroll in these individually if you desire expertise in a certain area. Or take several to create a graduate certificate that provides more advanced, specialized knowledge in internal combustion engines. As with all graduate programs, the online application is free. And no GRE is required. Enroll In Summer Classes Courses are starting right away. In fact, there are several graduate-level offerings on deck for Summer 2024 and one brand-new course for Fall 2024. Summer 2024 Courses SI Engine Fundamentals (MEEM 5201) June 19-21, 2024 lab course SI Engine Controls (MEEM 5203) July 10-12, 2024 lab course Thermodynamics Refresher (MEEM 3990) June 10 - Aug. 8, 2024 New Course for Fall 2024 Thermodynamics for Engine Systems (MEEM 5990) is available, along with our existing courses. For course registration information, contact Jeff Naber. #engineering #mechanicalengineering

The APS LABS is excited to partner with Polaris Inc. and the State of Michigan in opening a trail integrated into the UP's vast trail system that supports Off-Road EVs. Learn more at:  https://lnkd.in/eZ5b3wup #ElectricVehicles #SustainableMobility #UPTrails #Innovation

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐓𝐔 𝐓𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐄𝐕 𝐇𝐌𝐌𝐖𝐕: 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐞𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐄-𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝. APS LABS at Michigan Tech is at the forefront of military mobility innovation. The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) HMMWV prototypes demonstrate innovative solutions that provide new and improved functionality on the battlefield, paving the way for a new era of military readiness that prioritizes efficiency and stealth. This project’s outcomes include: • Increased operational performance (including total range, acceleration, top speed, speed on grade, and recharge time) • Duration of silent watch • Silent mobility • Increased on-board power and export power generation This work, led by the APS LABS at Michigan Technological University, in partnership with Pilot Systems International, LLC, and sponsored by the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO), sets new benchmarks in military vehicle performance, ensuring our soldiers have the most advanced, reliable, and safe transportation options on and off the battlefield. Check out the full Michigan Tech News article to learn more, and stay tuned if you wish to learn more about this project and the implications of HEV technology in enhancing the Army's tactical mobility. #HybridElectricVehicles #MilitaryInnovation #MichiganTech

The Michigan Tech APS LABS is proud to participate in the future of military mobility with hybrid electric tactical vehicles. These vehicles will demonstrate enhanced operational effectiveness, including multiple propulsion modes, enhanced silent watch, and export power capabilities. Check out this article by the US Army to learn more! #HybridElectricVehicles #MilitaryInnovation #MichiganTech

Career Opportunity at the APS LABS: The APS LABS is on the lookout for engineers to join our team. We are at the forefront of advanced R&D in energy and mobility, and we need your expertise! About the Role: - Develop solutions for advanced propulsion, vehicle controls, connected and autonomous vehicles, and alternative energy in a dynamic environment. - Engage in diverse activities, including design, development, experimental studies, and analysis. - Collaborate on technical research proposals, contribute to technical publications, and share your knowledge through presentations. - Mentor and train undergraduates and graduate students, fostering the next wave of engineering talent. Your Impact: - Bring your passion for research and development to a team that values innovation and creativity. - Play a key role in groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of energy and mobility. - Experience personal and professional growth in a state-of-the-art environment for research and development. Submit your application here:  https://lnkd.in/eSemdiMQ #Hiring #Research #Innovation #AdvancedMobility #APSLABS

The APS LABS team is excited to share this announcement about the new $2.5M project led by Dr. Jeff Naber. The development of an advanced medium-duty SI engine running on natural gas and NG/H2 blends aligns perfectly with the work we've been conducting at the APS LABS. For years, our research facility has been at the forefront of studying Natural Gas and Hydrogen combustion. Whether it's in our Combustion Vessel Laboratory or through our engine testing capabilities, we've consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable fuel technology. As Dr. Naber points out, the strength of this project lies in the collaboration and the collective expertise of its team members. We're proud to be part of this project, contributing to the development of high-efficiency engines that aim to lower greenhouse gas emissions and create a more sustainable future. #SustainableEnergy #Innovation #APSLABS #MichiganTech #NaturalGas #hydrogenenergy