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Fundamentals of Fluid Power

James D. Van De Ven, PhD and Will Durfee, PhD

Fluid power has the highest power density of all conventional power-transmission technologies. Learn the benefits and limitations of fluid power, how to analyze fluid power components and circuits, and how to design and simulate fluid power circuits for applications.

In this course, you will be introduced to the fundamental principles and analytical modeling of fluid power components, circuits, and systems.

Read more

Fluid power has the highest power density of all conventional power-transmission technologies. Learn the benefits and limitations of fluid power, how to analyze fluid power components and circuits, and how to design and simulate fluid power circuits for applications.

In this course, you will be introduced to the fundamental principles and analytical modeling of fluid power components, circuits, and systems.

You will learn the benefits and limitations of fluid power compared with other power transmission technologies; the operation, use, and symbols of common hydraulic components; how to formulate and analyze models of hydraulic components and circuits; and how to design and predict the performance of fluid power circuits.

This course is supported by the National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center for Compact and Efficient Fluid Power, and is endorsed by the National Fluid Power Association, the leading industry trade group in fluid power.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1: Fundamentals of Fluid Power
This week: An overview of the course, introduction to hydraulics and pneumatics, and introduction to fundamental concepts of fluid power through the cylinder.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops analytical modeling skills for fluid power components, circuits, and systems, which are relevant to engineering and industry
Introduces key components of fluid power systems, including hydraulic components, valves, and pumps
Explores fluid power simulation using Simscape Fluids, providing learners with practical experience
Examines advanced components such as accumulators and servo valves, expanding learners' understanding of fluid power systems
Taught by James D. Van De Ven, PhD and Will Durfee, PhD, renowned experts in fluid power engineering
Supported by the National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center for Compact and Efficient Fluid Power
Endorsed by the National Fluid Power Association, indicating industry recognition and relevance
This course requires prior knowledge of fluid mechanics and basic engineering principles

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Reviews summary

Fundamentals of fluid power and simulation

According to learners, this course provides a strong foundation in fluid power principles, covering both fundamentals and advanced topics. Many find the inclusion of Simscape Fluids simulation to be a particularly valuable aspect, offering hands-on experience applying concepts. While some reviewers note the material can be challenging and may benefit from prior engineering knowledge, they generally appreciate the clarity of lectures and the connection to real-world applications. A minor point raised by some is that the Simscape videos use an older version, requiring slight adaptation.
Valuable hands-on experience with simulation.
"Using Simscape Fluids was a highlight; it really helped visualize circuits."
"The Simscape assignments were incredibly useful for practical application."
"Simscape integration is a major plus. It allowed me to experiment with designs virtually."
Provides comprehensive principles and depth.
"This course provides an incredibly solid foundation in fluid power principles."
"The topics covered are fundamental yet detailed enough to be very useful."
"Excellent course! The explanations are thorough and build concepts logically from basic principles to complex systems."
Videos use older Simscape version.
"Note that the Simscape videos use an older version, requiring some adjustment."
"There were minor differences between the lecture demos and my installed Simscape."
"Had to figure out some UI changes in the current Simscape version."
Can be challenging, benefits from background.
"Some parts were quite challenging, especially the Simscape exercises."
"I struggled with this course. The material is very technical and seems to assume a strong prior background in related engineering fields which I lack."
"The pace was sometimes fast, requiring extra effort to keep up."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fundamentals of Fluid Power with these activities:
Fluid Dynamics Review
Reviewing this will build upon your knowledge.
Browse courses on Fluid Dynamics
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous courses on Fluid Dynamics.
  • Complete online practice problems on Fluid Dynamics.
Review fluid power systems basic components
Refreshes the basic components of fluid power systems to ensure a strong foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Fluids
Show steps
  • Review the different types of hydraulic and pneumatic components, such as pumps, valves, cylinders, and accumulators
  • Understand the function and operation of each component
  • Identify the different types of fluid power systems and their applications
Fluid Power Study Group
Participating in a study group will allow you to learn from and collaborate with your peers.
Show steps
  • Form a study group with classmates.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course material and work on problems together.
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Collaborate with peers on fluid power system design challenges
Facilitates collaboration and knowledge sharing among peers to enhance understanding of fluid power system design.
Browse courses on Teamwork
Show steps
  • Form a study group or connect with peers online
  • Identify a specific fluid power system design challenge to work on together
  • Share ideas, brainstorm solutions, and provide feedback to each other
  • Present the results of your collaboration to the group or in a forum discussion
Fluid Power Simulation Tutorials
These tutorials will provide additional practice and insight into fluid power simulation.
Show steps
  • Follow the tutorials provided in the course on Simscape Fluids.
  • Find additional tutorials on fluid power simulation online.
Explore fluid power simulations using Simscape Fluids
Provides hands-on experience in using fluid power simulation software to analyze and design fluid power systems.
Show steps
  • Follow online tutorials or documentation to learn the basics of Simscape Fluids
  • Create a simple fluid power circuit simulation model in Simscape Fluids
  • Simulate the model and analyze the results to understand the behavior of the circuit
  • Explore advanced features of Simscape Fluids, such as parameter optimization and sensitivity analysis
Fluid Power Circuit Analysis Practice
Practice will reinforce your understanding of fluid power circuit analysis.
Show steps
  • Solve practice problems on fluid power circuit analysis.
  • Complete online quizzes on fluid power circuit analysis.
Volunteer at a Fluid Power Lab
Volunteering will provide you with hands-on experience in a fluid power lab and allow you to network with professionals in the field.
Show steps
  • Contact a fluid power lab and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend volunteer orientation and training.
  • Assist with research projects or other tasks as assigned.
Design and simulate a fluid power system for a specific application
Applies the principles and knowledge gained in the course to design and simulate a practical fluid power system.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific application for a fluid power system, such as a hydraulic press or a pneumatic actuator
  • Design the fluid power system, including the selection of components, sizing, and configuration
  • Create a simulation model of the system in Simscape Fluids
  • Simulate the model to evaluate the performance and identify any potential issues
  • Document the design and simulation results in a technical report
Fluid Power Presentation
Creating a presentation will help you synthesize your knowledge of fluid power and improve your communication skills.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic related to fluid power.
  • Research your topic and gather information.
  • Create a presentation that is clear, concise, and engaging.
  • Present your findings to your classmates.
Fluid Power System Design Project
This project will allow you to apply your knowledge of fluid power to a real-world problem.
Show steps
  • Identify a problem that can be solved using fluid power.
  • Design a fluid power system to solve the problem.
  • Build and test your system.
  • Evaluate the performance of your system.

Career center

Learners who complete Fundamentals of Fluid Power will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Fluid Power Engineer
A Fluid Power Engineer designs, builds, and maintains fluid power systems. Understanding the benefits and limitations of fluid power, as well as how to analyze, design, and simulate fluid power circuits, would be essential for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in fluid power engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Fluid Power Engineer
Professor
A Professor teaches and conducts research at a university. Understanding the fundamental principles and analytical modeling of fluid power components, circuits, and systems would be essential for this role. Additionally, knowledge of Simscape Fluids and the ability to use it for simulation would be an advantage. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in academia.
See salaries and explore the career path for Professor
Hydraulic Technician
A Hydraulic Technician specializes in the maintenance, repair, and installation of hydraulic systems. Knowledge of hydraulic components, their symbols, and analytical modeling would provide a strong foundation for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in hydraulic system maintenance and repair.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hydraulic Technician
Systems Engineer
A Systems Engineer designs, builds, and maintains systems. Understanding the fundamental principles and analytical modeling of fluid power components, circuits, and systems would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in systems engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs, builds, and maintains mechanical systems. Understanding the fundamental principles and analytical modeling of fluid power components, circuits, and systems would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in mechanical engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer
Quality Assurance Engineer
A Quality Assurance Engineer ensures that products and services meet quality standards. Knowledge of fluid power, including its components, concepts, and performance, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in quality assurance engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Engineer
Design Engineer
A Design Engineer designs, builds, and maintains products. Knowledge of fluid power, including its components, concepts, and performance, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in product design engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Design Engineer
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer creates and maintains technical documentation. Knowledge of fluid power, including its components, concepts, and performance, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in technical writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Manufacturing Engineer
A Manufacturing Engineer designs, builds, and maintains manufacturing systems. Knowledge of fluid power, including its benefits and limitations, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in manufacturing engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Engineer
Maintenance Manager
A Maintenance Manager supervises and manages maintenance operations. Knowledge of fluid power, including its components, concepts, and performance, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in maintenance management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Maintenance Manager
Manufacturing Supervisor
A Manufacturing Supervisor supervises and manages manufacturing operations. Knowledge of fluid power, including its benefits and limitations, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in manufacturing supervision.
See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Supervisor
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans, executes, and closes projects. Knowledge of fluid power, including its benefits and limitations, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in project management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Sales Engineer
A Sales Engineer sells and supports products and services. Knowledge of fluid power, including its benefits and limitations, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in sales engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Engineer
Product Manager
A Product Manager plans, develops, and launches products. Knowledge of fluid power, including its benefits and limitations, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in product management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Consultant
A Consultant provides advice and support to organizations. Knowledge of fluid power, including its benefits and limitations, would be important for this role. This course is suitable for those interested in careers in consulting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Fundamentals of Fluid Power.
Cover image
Hydraulic Fluid Power
Save
This textbook comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles and analytical modeling of fluid power components, circuits, and systems.
Hydraulic Fluid Power: Fundamentals, Applications,...
Hardcover
$$$
Hydraulic Fluid Power: Fundamentals, Applications,...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Maintenance Fundamentals
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of hydraulic fluid power, including the principles of operation, design, and maintenance of hydraulic circuits and components.
Maintenance Fundamentals (Plant Engineering)
Hardcover
$$$$
Vibration Fundamentals (Plant Engineering...
Hardcover
$$$$
Maintenance Fundamentals (Plant Engineering)
Kindle Edition
$$$
Vibration Fundamentals (Plant Engineering...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Fluid Power with Applications
Save
This textbook covers the fundamentals of fluid power, including the basic principles of hydraulics and pneumatics, as well as the design and analysis of fluid power circuits.
Fluid Power with Applications
Hardcover
$$$$
Fluid Power with Applications-International Edition
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Fluid Power Dynamics
Save
This textbook provides an in-depth analysis of the dynamics of fluid power systems, including the modeling and simulation of hydraulic and pneumatic circuits.
Fluid Power Dynamics (Plant Engineering Maintenance...
Hardcover
$$$
Fluid Power Dynamics (Plant Engineering Maintenance...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Advances in Fluid Power Systems
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the design and analysis of hydraulic and pneumatic circuits and systems.
Advances in Fluid Power Systems
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Pneumatic Drives
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the design and operation of pneumatic drives, including the principles of operation, sizing, and control of pneumatic systems.
Pneumatic Drives: System Design, Modelling and...
Hardcover
$$$$
Pneumatic Drives: System Design, Modelling and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Mechatronics System Design, SI Version
Save
This textbook provides an overview of mechatronic systems, including the principles of fluid power, electrical engineering, and control systems.
Mechatronics System Design, SI Version
Paperback
Check
Mechatronics System Design, SI Version
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Mechatronics and the Design of Intelligent Machines...
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the design and analysis of fluid power systems, including the principles of operation, component selection, and system design.
Mechatronics and the Design of Intelligent Machines...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Damage Mechanics
Save
This textbook provides an in-depth discussion of the analysis of hydraulic systems, including the use of software tools for circuit simulation.
Damage Mechanics (Mechanical Engineering (CRC Press...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Scalar Damage and Healing Mechanics
Kindle Edition
$$$$

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Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Minnesota
Instructors
James D. Van De Ven, PhD
Will Durfee, PhD
Language
English
Transcripts
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Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops analytical modeling skills for fluid power components, circuits, and systems, which are relevant to engineering and industry
Introduces key components of fluid power systems, including hydraulic components, valves, and pumps
Explores fluid power simulation using Simscape Fluids, providing learners with practical experience
Examines advanced components such as accumulators and servo valves, expanding learners' understanding of fluid power systems
Taught by James D. Van De Ven, PhD and Will Durfee, PhD, renowned experts in fluid power engineering
Supported by the National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center for Compact and Efficient Fluid Power
Endorsed by the National Fluid Power Association, indicating industry recognition and relevance
This course requires prior knowledge of fluid mechanics and basic engineering principles
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