The metal/insulator page
The following models have been developed to help explain ECE 326, Electronics
I, concepts:
The metal/insulator
page
The silicon crystal structure (pure, intrinsic Si) p-type silicon crystal model
The diode models show the various atoms and electrons making up the structure of the diode. The particles in these microscopic view are animated, showing the activities of the electrons (current flow) during the diode's various modes of operation.
Some of our early work culminated in our first diode model that showed the structure and operation of a semiconductor diode. This first work, while not complete and entirely accurate, provides a demonstration of what can be done. It also provides examples of how to do graphs, sound, guided tours, etc. This work was done using VRML 1.0 and must use Netscape's Live3D viewer (included with Navigator 3.x) for full functionality [it can be viewed with Cosmo Player].
Another VRML 1.0 diode
that is a little more accurate.
This VRML 2.0 diode currently
has little functionality. Neither does this
one but at least it has music.
The picture links to one of several early models of the New Engineering
Building ( a list of the
earlier models). The newest
model allows watching week by week progress at the early construction
stages, and gives the best representation of any of our models of the completed
building.
A small working piece of a nerve
cell (any VRML 2 viewer works)
A
simple neural network ... (any VRML 2 viewer works)
An
earthquake demonstration building
has been developed in consultation with Dr. Brad Cross of Civil Engineering.
This model includes a guided tour and shows various structural retrofits
that can strengthen a building. An earthquake can be simulated and the
effects of the retrofits visualized. The model includes a "finite element"
analysis of one of the beams: its bending motion is shown and it is color-coded
to show forces throughout the beam.
A construction site
planning model has also been developed. This simple prototype shows
how the user can observe planned construction progress by date. The model
also helps plan and visualize the logistics of material and equipment arrival,
storage, and use. Further development of this may lead to a tool useful
to contracting firms. Our new engineering building, currently under construction,
provides an excellent opportunity to develop, demonstrate, and hopefully
benefit from a model of this type.
A model of Cahokia mounds
that allows watching its evolution over time has been developed.
A second model
more accurately combines and shows some actual landscape and archaeological
data.
A model of a highway
noise abatement wall.
A model of a piano
guy.
