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CONTENTSIntroduction ..................................................................................................................................4

1. General characteristics of the Faculty of Engineering................................................52. Body of Agricultural Engineering study program self–assessment

Subcommittees and Managing Committee ...............................................................73. Summary of the strategic planning seminar results....................................................94. Positions of some faculty graduates.........................................................................125. Monographs, text books and teaching aids written by teachers...............................146. Patents obtained by teachers and employees............................................................19

Part 1. Agricultural Engineering Academic (Bachelor) Study Program ..............................211.1. The aim and tasks of the program ........................................................................221.2. Qualification obtained ..........................................................................................231.3. Further education possibilities for graduates ........................................................231.4. Syllabus ................................................................................................................231.5. Comparison to European state study programs ....................................................241.6. Perspective evaluation of the study program.........................................................251.7. Organisation of studies and assessment of knowledge .........................................251.8. Information on the academic staff.........................................................................261.9. Insurance and management of studies ..................................................................26

1.10. Creative and research work....................................................................................271.11. Quality insurance system.......................................................................................271.12. Summary ...............................................................................................................28Appendices: ..................................................................................................................29

1.1. Study program ...............................................................................................301.2. Standardized part of the Engineering Bachelor study program......................381.3. Proportion of the Agricultural Engineering academic undergraduate

program disciplines in comparison to related study programs of other universities......................................................................................................39

1.4. Qualification of the study program academic staff .......................................401.5. Assessment of the study process and its results in inquiries..........................421.6. Bachelor works and diploma projects elaborated and defended in 2001 ......441.7. Estimated costs of the academic and professional study program in

Agricultural Engineering................................................................................48

Part 2. Professional Study program in Agricultural Engineering..........................................512.1. The aim and tasks of the program ........................................................................522.2. Qualification obtained ..........................................................................................522.3. Further education possibilities for graduates.........................................................522.4. Syllabus ................................................................................................................532.5. Comparison to European state study programs ....................................................532.6. Perspective evaluation of the study program ........................................................542.7. Organisation of studies and assessment of knowledge .........................................552.8. Information on the academic staff ........................................................................552.9. Insurance and management of studies ..................................................................56

2.10. Creative and research work ...................................................................................562.11. Quality insurance system ......................................................................................572.12. Summary ...............................................................................................................57

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Appendices:...................................................................................................................582.1. Study program................................................................................................59

Part 3. Graduate study program in Agricultural Engineering ..............................................633.1. The aim and tasks of graduate studies...................................................................643.2. Perspective characteristics of the study program..................................................643.3. Information on possibilities in graduate studies....................................................653.4. Characterisation of the academic staff...................................................................663.5. The number and quality of Master degree works..................................................673.6. Criteria, forms and procedure of assessment.........................................................683.7. Insurance of the study program.............................................................................683.8. International relations and improvement of graduate student qualification..........693.9. Graduate course development conception ............................................................70

3.10. Graduate possibilities to get a job..........................................................................703.11. Summary ...............................................................................................................71Appendices: ..................................................................................................................72

3.1. Study program................................................................................................733.2. List of persons awarded the Master Degree in Engineering...........................823.3. Graduates of the Master studies at the FE......................................................86

Part 4. Post-graduate study program in Agricultural Engineering.........................874.1. The aim and tasks of post–graduate studies..........................................................884.2. Duration and coverage of post–graduate studies...................................................894.3. Program implementation regulations and requirements........................................894.4. Content of studies .................................................................................................90

4.4.1. Theoretical studies at the post–graduate course .........................................904.4.2. Characterization of the general theoretical course of study branches ........904.4.3. Special theoretical course program in the branch of the promotion work . 91

4.5. Comparison to post–graduate study programs of other European countries ........914.6. Quality insurance system in studies ......................................................................914.7. Supervision of the program plan implementation ................................................914.8. Academic staff of the study program....................................................................924.9. Program implementation possibilities...................................................................92

4.10. Study costs.............................................................................................................924.11. Post–graduate student possibilities to participate in projects financed

by the LCS and state programs .............................................................................934.12. Post–graduate study results ...................................................................................93

Appendices: ................................................................................................................944.1. Disciplines and courses of agricultural engineering science post–graduate

studies ............................................................................................................954.2. Characterization of the general theoretical course of the branch of studies...964.3. Study program implementation plan in full–time studies..............................974.4. Study program implementation plan in part–time studies .............................984.5. Academic staff of the post-graduate study program.......................................994.6. Program of the study course Enegetics .......................................................1004.7. Program of the study subject Modeling and optimization of the industrial process automatic control systems ....................................................................105

Conclusion ................................................................................................................................108

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1. General characteristics of the Faculty of Engineering

The Faculty of Engineering (FE – till 31.12.1995 the Faculty of Agricultural Mechanisation) of the Latvia University of Agriculture (LUA – till 1991 the Latvian Agricultural Academy) was founded in 1944 having one speciality – agricultural mechanisation. In 1959 the speciality of automobiles and automobile fleet was introduced (since 1994 the speciality of autotransport), in 1989 – speciality of agricultural electrification and automation (since 1994 – agricultural energetics), in 1991 – speciality of food engineering were introduced. In 1994 all the mentioned specialities were joined in one study program with corresponding subprograms. In 1998 a subprogram in entrepreneurship in agro service was established.

Five institutes form the structure of the faculty: Education and Home Economics, Agricultural Energetics, Agricultural Machinery, Mechanics and Power Vehicles. In 1997 a part of the researchers from the privatised former State Animal Breeding Mechanisation Scientific and Technical Centre Rāmava moved to the faculty and were included in the structure of the Institute of Agricultural Machinery. On January 1, 1998 the former Latvian State Agricultural Mechanisation and Energetics Scientific Research Institute became a part of the faculty as a legal person in the structure of the Institute of Agricultural Machinery. Its present name is LUA Ulbroka Scientific Centre. On July 1, 2000 the Institute of Education and Home Economics was included in the structure of the faculty. It was formed joining the Department of Pedagogics that has been housed in the faculty since it was established (structurally since 1990 it was a part of the Institute of Humanities located in the central building of the LUA) and the part of home economics of the Department of Nutrition and Home Economics of the Faculty of Food Technology. With this also the study program of home economics and education is under supervision of the newly organised institute and the faculty.

At the beginning of the study year 2000/2001 at the faculty there were in total 1047 undergraduate students, 549 of them being full–time and 498 part–time students, 139 Master Degree students, 70 of them being full–time and 69 part–time students, 33 post–graduate students, including 23 full–time and 10 part-time students. On 01.09.2000 there were 75.75 teacher posts at the faculty, 2.0 of them – State Professors, 6.5 – Professors Seniors, 9.5 Associate Professors, 28.5 Docents, 21.0 Lecturers and 8.25 Assistants. There are seven grants for excellent students – four named after Kārlis Ulmanis and three Senate grants. In the academic year of 2000/2001 the students of the Agricultural Engineering program received two K.Ulmanis grants, in 2001/2002 they have been awarded one K.Ulmanis and one Senate grant. Since 1996 a grant of the former Dean of the faculty and the LUA Rector, Professor, Doctor of Technical sciences, an outstanding specialist of mechanics and machine mechanisms Oļģerts Ozols (1914–1976) has been established at the faculty, it is awarded for a study year for excellent results in engineering fundamental subjects. The Ulbroka scientific centre awards one grant to a student who takes part in the research work of the centre. The Agricultural Energetics subprogram students successfully strive for the grants of the Latvian Education Fund in energetics and every year some students receive it.

During the existence of the faculty 5528 people have graduated from it, including 147 women. The number of students in subprograms is as follows: agricultural mechanisation – 4243 (including 669 part–time students), autotransport – 1171 (498), agricultural energetics – 96 (2), food engineering – 16 and entrepreneurship in agroservice – 2. 28 people have graduated from the engineering Master studies. In 2001 44 engineering study program students graduated from the faculty, including 38 full–time and 6 part–time students. 45 % of the students who started to study in 1997 have graduated as full–time students, only 13 % of those who started to study in 1996 have graduated as part–time students. This year graduates can be divided according to the study program subprograms as follows: autotransport – 22, agricultural energetics – 15, agricultural mechanisation – 3, food engineering – 2 and entrepreneurship in agroservice – 2. No

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students graduated from the education–home economics undergraduate program due to changes in the study plan. In 2001 one student graduated from the engineering Master Degree course and 63 graduate students graduated from the Master Degree course in Education.

Fifteen graduates of the faculty have obtained the Doctor habil. scientific degree, 98 – Doctor of science degree.

Since 1961 the faculty has its own separate building in Čakste boulevard 5 (floor space 7906 m2.). Besides the main building since 1964 an engine testing laboratory in Lielā street 2 (285 m2) and since 1983 a Production Training centre in Paula Lejiņa street 2 (1396 m2) with a training site for practical driving instruction and teaching practice for students to have practice in operation of agricultural machinery are at the faculty disposal.

Information on the faculty and its study programs is available in a booklet issued every year for the Open Door day in March. Since 1997 every spring a booklet The Faculty of Engineering has been issued as a present to the graduates, it presents a short description of the faculty, the list of all graduates from the faculty, including the graduates of the year of the issue, and the list of the staff of the faculty. Information on the faculty can be found in the LUA home page in Internet http://www.cs.llu.lv/Struktv/Tehnf/tf.html.

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2. The Body of Agricultural Engineering Study Program Self – assessment Subcommittees and Managing Committee

(Confirmed at the FE Managing Board meeting on 24. 11.1999)

Self-assessment Managing Committee

K.Vārtukapteinis, Dean, Head of the Com.

K.Počs, Vice-deanA.Šnīders, LEI Director, Prof.J.Palabinskis, LTI Director, DocentM.Ķirsis, SRI Director, assoc. Prof.G.Uzkliņģis, MI Director, Prof.

A.Galiņš, Assoc. Prof.I.Ziemelis, Assoc. Prof.G.Birzietis, DocentP.Leščevics, Assoc. Prof.J.Čukurs, Docent

Subcommittees:

1. Perspective Development and Planning

G.Birzietis, docent, Head of the Subcom.K.Vārtukapteinis, DeanA.Čukure, DocentI.Roga, DocentA.Kaķītis, DocentD.Viesturs, DocentI.Dukulis, Lecturer

E.Bērziņš, ProfessorA.Grundulis, ProfessorI.Pelšs, Post-graduate StudentK. Lieģenieks, Master StudentA.Augulis, StudentA.Erdmanis, Student

2. Organisation and Management

J.Čukurs, docent, Head of the Subcom.K.Počs, Vice-deanA.Mežs, DocentR.Šeļegovskis, LecturerV.Valaine, Lecturer

A.Rumba, LecturerP.Čerņajevs, AssistantR.Valeniks, Student J.Alksnis, Student A.Laugalis, Student

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3. Programs and StudiesM.Ķirsis, assoc. prof., Head of the Subcom.K.Vārtukapteinis, DeanJ.Priekulis, Assoc. ProfessorV.Pušinskis, Assoc. ProfessorJ.G.Pommers, ProfessorG.Uzkliņģis, ProfessorI.Klegeris, DocentJ.Tupiņš, DocentG.Vērdiņš, Docent

J.Avotiņš, DocentV.Truslis, LecturerA.Knite, LecturerJ.Vizbulis, LecturerJ.Klints, Post-graduate StudentR.Lūsis, Master StudentS.Vītols, Student I.Nulle, Student

4. Scientific activitiesI.Ziemelis, asoc. prof., Head of the Subcom.A.Šnīders, ProfessorE.Bērziņš, ProfessorA.Grundulis, ProfessorJ.Ozols, ProfessorV.Gulbis, ProfessorJ.Lācars, Docent

G.Birzietis, DocentĒ.Kronbergs, DocentG.Burks, Post-graduate StudentA.Lelis, Master StudentI.Freibergs, StudentU.Vilciņš, Student

5. Subcommittee of teachersA.Galiņš, assoc. prof., Head of the Subcom.J.Palabinskis, DocentA.Biernis, ProfessorVl.Beķers, LecturerM.Aumale, Docent

Z.Miķelsons, DocentJ.Svētiņš, DocentM.Timma, Master StudentA.Zvejniece, StudentD.Arājs, Student

6. Material, Finance, Informative, Library ResourcesP.Leščevics, assoc. prof., Head of the Subcom.Ē.Ozoliņš, DocentA.Galoburda, DocentG.Aizsils, DocentA.Priekule, LecturerL.Dominieks, Lecturer

G.Godmanis, LecturerR.Žuka, LecturerE.Visockis, Master StudentM.Melnis, StudentG.Bukalders, Student

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3. Summary of the Strategic Planning Seminar Results

16 teachers of the faculty, four representatives of employers representing the spheres of auto transport, agricultural mechanisation and energetic and four representatives of students participated in the strategic planning seminar. Five work teams were established in the seminar – three of teachers, one of employers and one of students as well as the seminar coordination team. Further the main statements elaborated during the seminar are presented.

Faculty Mission

To train highly qualified, creative and competent specialists in agricultural engineering. To become the agricultural engineering education and research centre in Latvia.

Faculty Vision

1. The Faculty of Engineering has become stable in circulation of international universities.2. The faculty is the agricultural engineering center of Latvia.3. The teaching material base is developed in compliance with the technical progress.4. Mainly young teachers work in the classrooms and favourable microclimate is maintained at the faculty.5. Students are prepared for engineering studies and motivated to work independently.6. Computerised assessment of tests, course papers, home assignments and control works.7. Graduates from the FE are most demanded in the labour market.

Activities to Implement the Faculty Vision

1. Development of material technical and study base conforming to the technical progress and demand with corresponding supply of computers.2. Following the changes in the labour market situation, their analysis and observation in actual work.3. Ascendancy over the attitude of state structures in favour of science, education and agriculture.4. Co-ordination of study programs with Western higher educational establishments.5. Development of language and communication skills.

The Role of the Faculty of Engineering in the LUA

1. The faculty provides the basis of engineering science for almost all the faculties of the LUA.2. The profile of the faculty is based on the important role of machinery in the technological system - land, animal, human, machine for highly productive production of quality products.3. The faculty trains competitive, creative engineers working in various spheres of production – agriculture, processing of agricultural products, transport, energetic supply for production – able to carry out research work in these spheres.4. Faculty stands out for its initiative in improving of many internal processes at the LAU.5. The image of the faculty is related to stressing the importance of theoretical knowledge in studies and attraction of machinery, especially automobiles, in the society.6. The faculty provides specialists for several fields of work at the LUA.

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Weaknesses of the Faculty

1. Insufficient financing.2. Respectable age of the teachers.3. Insufficient training of applicants.4. Obsolete teaching and research equipment.5. Insufficient advertising of the FE.6. Lack of places for practice.

Activities to Overcome the Weaknesses of the Faculty

1. Efficient usage of the existing finances and attraction of additional financing.2. Intensification of supervision of study program implementation order.3. Renovation of the teaching staff.4. Usage of firms, exhibitions and other units in the process of studies.5. Development of cooperation among faculty graduates and potential employers.

Strengths of the Faculty

1. Time approved school for training engineers, stable, qualified and experienced academic personnel.2. High prestige of graduates in the labour market.3. Well-knit collective and favourable microclimate at the faculty.4. Training of wide-profile specialists.5. Comparatively good material base.6. International co-operation.

Activities to Use the Strengths of the Faculty

1. Inclusion of experienced teachers in training new teachers.2. Extension of international co-operation.3. Development of additional activities.4. Activization of introduction of up-dated teaching aids.

Threats for the Faculty Caused by the External Environment

1. Instability and low level of production.2. Insufficient financing.3. Competition among higher schools.4. Insufficiency in young teachers due to low salaries.5. Demographic problem.6. Unreasoned government decisions in the sphere of education.7. Lowering of the secondary education level.

Activities to Lessen the Threats Caused by the External Environment

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1. Participation in the process of development of normative documents.2. Development of co-operation with businessmen and employers.3. Improvement of the faculty prestige by organisation of advertising.4. Research in economic processes.

Opportunities of the Faculty Provided by the External Environment

1. Possibilities of international co-operation extend and become easier.2. Stable and in perspective growing demand for engineers in various fields.3. Availability of information.4. Maintenance of rural way of life and Latvian mentality.5. Introduction of new technologies in economics.6. Possibilities to train specialists by the order of employers.

Activities to Use the Possibilities Created by the External Environment

1. Development of flexible study programs according to the demand (also for further education).2. Acquisition of foreign languages to extend obtaining of information and implementation of co-operation programs.3. Promotion of co-operation with related educational establishments and potential employers.

Tasks on Hierarchic Levels for Implementation of the Vision of the Faculty

University: Strategic management, University base financing substantiation. Delegation of the University needs to the government and Saeima. Strategic management of international co-operation.

Faculty: Management of the process of studies. Faculty funds, sponsors, projects, link with economics. International co-ordination of programs.

Faculty institutes: Attraction of new teachers. Teaching methodical materials. Active attraction of students in processes of the institutes.

PS. for everybody: Generation of ideas and formation of the psychological climate.

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4. Positions of some faculty graduates

Graduated up to 1990

Bemhens Leons (1977) – Director of Riga City Municipal enterprise – bus fleet Tālava;Bērziņš Edvīns (1958) – LUA Vice–rector in Science, Corresponding member of the Latvian

Academy of Science, Head of the Latvian Agricultural and Forest Science Academy Department of Mechanisation and Energetics, Dr.habil.sc.ing., Professor;

Bila Pēteris (1980) – Director of Jelgava Machine building plant;Bunkšs Jānis (1979) – Deputy of Saeima 7, has been Deputy of Saeima 5 and 6, State Minister

of municipality affairs;Buividaitis Valdis (1980) – Manager of Jelgava region Road Traffic Safety Department;Golgāns Raimonds (1988) – AS Zemgales piens Board Manager;Keišs Vitālijs (1984) – Manager of Ludza region Road Traffic Safety Department;Kinna Jānis (1976) – Vice–director of Latvian State Veterinary Service in administrative items,

has been the Manager of LR Sanitary borderinspection, Minister of Agriculture, Deputy of the LR Supreme Council and Saeima 5;

Krasiļņikovs Aleksandrs (1981) – Director of the Business Institute RIMPAK Livonia, Dr.iur.;Kronbergs Aivars (1974) – Manager of Alūksne region Road traffic Safety Department;Kucins Arvīds (1981) – Head of Daugavpils Regional Council;Kulbergs Viktors (1975) – General Director of SIA Auto Rīga, President of Latvia Trade and

Industry Chamber;Liberts Gundars (1969) – Dean of the Riga Technical University Faculty of Transport and

Mechanical Engineering, Dr.sc.ing., Professor;Miķelsons Jānis (1981) – Manager of Talsi region State Fire and Rescue service;Miķelsons Kārlis (1982) – VAS Latvenergo President;Muižnieks Leopolds (1981) – AS Rīga Taxi fleet Board Manager;Niklass Māris (1981) – Executive Director of Cēsis regional Council;Pošeika Pēteris (1985) – SIA Balti Agroķimikālijas Director;Pusbarnieks Guntis (1981) – Director of MidLatvia Region Agricultural Supervisory Board;Rāviņš Andris (1980) – Jelgava City Mayor, has been the Manager of Latvia Unibank Jelgava

Department, Minister of Agriculture, Head of Jelgava regional Council;

Rivža Pēteris (1972) – Dean of the LUA Faculty of Information Technologies, Chairperson of the LUA Convent, Dr.habil.sc.ing., Professor;

Sagalovičs Genādijs (1961) – Head of the Department of Microelectronics, RTU, Dr.habil.sc.ing., Professor;

Slakteris Atis (1980) – Minister of Agriculture, Deputy of Saeima 7, farmer, has been the Ministry of Agriculture Cooperation State Minister ;

Sesks Uldis (1986) – Liepāja City Mayor;Sovers Andris (1967) – Director of Agricultural Machinery Certification and Testing Centre;Sprancmanis Nikolajs (1963) – Group manager of Business Logistics and Transport Economics

Professors, Dr.habil.oec., Professor;Šķēle Andris (1981) –Deputy of Saeima 7, Head of the Tautas party, has thrice been the

President of Ministers;Tamanis Andris (1971) – SIA Lauktehnika General Director;Tučs Anatolijs (1972) – AS Rēzekne Milk processing plant Board Manager;Tukišs Juris (1981) – Lielrīga Regional Agricultural Supervisory Board Director;Vaitužs Jūlijs (1981) – Deputy Director of the Ministry of Traffic Road Traffic Department;

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Veidemanis Jānis (1982) – Director of the Ministry of Traffic Railway Department;Vilcāns Roberts (1974) – AS Jelgavas Dzirnavas Director;Vilšķērsts Āris (1981) – Executive Director of Madona City municipality;Žīgurs Āris (1988) – AS Rīgas siltums President.

Graduated after 1990

Aspers Ģirts (1991) – SIA Agribalt Latvia Trade Manager;Auziņš Ansis (1994) –General Director of FORD Latvia subsidiary;Batarags Ričards (1997) – SIA Kalnozols Betons Marketing Department Manager;Berjoza Dainis (1992) – Docent at the LUA Department of Power Vehicles, Dr.sc.ing.;Binovskis Armands (1999) – Senior reporter at the Ministry of Agriculture;Birzietis Gints (1993) – Associate Professor at the LUA Department of Power Vehicles,

Dr.sc.ing.,Vice-dean;Bružs Andris (1992) – SIA Mežizstrādes tehnikas centrs President;Dombrovskis Rinalds (1999) – Export manager of the SAF Tehnika;Dominieks Dainis (1991) – AS Rīgas Dzirnavnieks Production Director;Dominieks Alvils (1991) - AS Jelgavas Dzirnavas Chief Engineer;Ertmanis Māris (1994) – State Fire and Rescue Service Alūksne region Department Manager;Freibergs Ints (2000) – Foreman at SIA Domenikss;Freimanis Ģirts (1993) - Executive Director of AS Kurzemes ceļi VentspilsDepartment;Immermanis Egils (1999) – Latvija Unibank Tukums subsidiary Client service Department

Manager;Jansons Arnis (1997) – Jelgava bus fleet Director;Krāģis Mārtiņš (1997) - SIA Cēsu Alus Production and Technical Department Manager;Krūmiņš Valdis (1998) – firm MAIVRO Office Manager;Kurgs Andris (1995) – SIA Vestfalia lauksaimniecības tehnika Director;Lazdāns Gundars (1993) – Latvija Saving bank Liepāja subsidiary Supervisor;Maldups Andris (1995) – Director of Transit Department of the Ministry of Traffic;Melbārdis Jānis (1996) – Jelgava municipality enterprise KULK energosystem engineer ;Ozoliņš Arvis (2001) – SIA Agrikultūra Managing Director;Pimucāns Sandris (2000) – SIA ABB Project Manager;Pinkovskis Egils (1993) – SIA Latvijas Keramika A Director;Počs Jānis (2000) – forest certification firm BO NEPCon Director;Razminovičs Arnis (1997) – Deputy of Saeima 7;Rungulis Didzis (1995) – SIA FilterAutomation Department Manager;Sīlis Juris (1993) – Jelgava printing house Director;Stalidzāns Ēriks (1995) – Deputy Director of VAS Latvenergo Southern electric nets; Strīķis Haralds (1998) – firm Fans Marketing Manager;Strods Andris (1995) – Manager of Preiļi Road Traffic Safety Department; Tavars Konstantīns (1999) – SIA Cēsu Alus energetic;Trankalis Rodijs (1994) – Jelgava Ice Hall Director, businessman;Turlais Andris (1994) – AS Jauda Marketing Manager;Vanags Viktors (1993) – Head of Jelgava Road Police Department;Židkovs Andulis (1995) – Director of Investment Department of the Ministry of Traffic;Žūriņš Kaspars (1994) – Deputy Director of Latvia Agricultural Advisory and Education

Support Centre.

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5. Monographs, Text Books and Teaching Aids Written by Teachers of the FE in 1991–2000

1991

Blīvis J., Gulbis V. Tractors and Automobiles: Textbook. – Rīga: Zvaigzne, 1991. – 519 p.Analytical and Graphoanalytical Kinematics of Dyad Mechanisms: Method. instr. / H.Čākurs,

J.Svētiņš, J.Truksnis. – Jelgava: LLA, 1991. – 56 p.Engineer graphics: Method. instr. / M.Aumale, A.Rumba. - Jelgava: LLA, 1995. – 19 p.Development of Field Cultivation Technologies: Method. instr. / J.Lācars, J.Tupiņš. – Jelgava:

LLA, 1991. – 58 p.Agricultural Machinery: Concise Russian – Latvian Dictionary of Production Terms /

J.Pommers. – Rīga: Zvaigzne, 1991. – 64 p.Metal Science: Method. instr. / O.Vējiņš, G.Vērdiņš. – Jelgava: LLA, 1991. – 72 p.Priekulis J., Tilaks S., Kaņeps J. Mechanisation of Animal Breeding Farms: Manual. – Rīga:

Avots, 1991. – 239 p.Calculation of Roller Chain Drive: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLA, 1991. - 36 p.Reciprocal Exchange, Standardisation and Technical Measurements: Method. instr. / A.Čukure,

I.Dukulis. – Jelgava: LLA, 1991. – 67 p.Šnīders A. Automation of Sewage Treatment and Watering Systems: Teach. aid. – Jelgava: LLA,

1991. – 31 p.Šnīders A. Automation of Flow Lines: Teach. aid. - Jelgava: LLA, 1991. – 57 p.

1992

Bērziņš E. Primary Processing and Storage of Grain: Lect. ilustr. mat. – Jelgava: LLU, 1992. – 83 p.

Brass J., Jansons Z., Pommers J. Motocycles and Mopeds: Manual. – Rīga: Avots, 1992. – 237 p.Lifting and Transport Machines: Form for Laboratory Work / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU,

1992. – 56 p.First Steps of the New Farmer / J.Priekulis, G.Aizsils, J.Ozols etc.–Rīga: Zvaigzne, 1992.–399 p.Metrical Synthesis of Crank-slide Mechanisms: Method. instr. / J.Svētiņš, J.Truksnis. – Jelgava:

LLU, 1992. – 45 p.Calculation of Lifting Mechanisms: Method. instr. / G.uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1992. – 45 p.Design of Band Conveyors: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1992. – 67 p.Technological Design Conception of Animal Farms for Private Farms / J.Priekulis, V.Auziņš,

A.Eglītis, S.Štrausa etc. – Jelgava: LLU, 1992. – 55 p.Machine Design Stages: Method. instr. / A.Lagzdons, G.Uzkliņģis.– Jelgava: LLU, 1992. – 36 p.Ozols J. Distributors: Theory and Technological Calculations: Lecture. – Jelgava: LLU, 1992. –

Part 1 – 61 p.On Measuring Units of the International System of Measures (SI) and their Application in

Engineering-Technical Disciplines / J.Truksnis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1992. – 24 p.Priekulis J., Tilaks S., Ziemelis I. Animal Breeding Mechanisation. – Rīga: Zvaigzne, 1992. –

379 p.Calculation of Grab Conveyors: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1992. – 40 p.Theoretical Mechanics: Lecture in Kinematics / O.Kepe, J.Vība, O.Grāpis, J.Lauva,

A.Kriščenko. – Rīga: RTU, 1992. – 178 p.

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1993

Calculation of Electric Power and Lighting Nets: Method. instr. / J.Fridrihsons, J.Kalējs, I.Klegeris. – Jelgava: LLU, 1993. – 38 p.

Agricultural Machines: Text book. / G.Aumalis, V.Beķers, E.Bērziņš, J.Emersons, J.Ozols. – Rīga: Zvaigzne, 1993. – 414 p.

Farmer Calculation Programs for PC / P.Rivža, J.Ozols, L.Kokins, J.Priekulis, S.Keišs. – Jelgava: LLU, 1993. – 87 p.

Ozols J. Distributors: Theory and Technological Calculations: Lecture. – Jelgava: LLU, 1993. – Part 2 – 65 p.

Šnīders A. Microprocessors and Robots: Teach. aid. – Jelgava: LLU, 1993. – 40 p.

1994

Assembling and Application of Asynchronous Electromotor Phase Sensitive Combined Protection Devices EFKA: Method. instr. / A.Šnīders, A.Grundulis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1995. –13 p.

Mechanisation of Plant Breeding: Method. instr. / V.Beķers, J.Lācars. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 17 p.

Design of Driving Mechanisms: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 40 p.Lifting and Transport Machines: Method instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 40 p.Elaboration of Technical Drawings of Parts: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis, A.Lagzdons. –

Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 80 p.Grants Z. Tractor and Automobile Diagnostics. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 252 p.Scoop Elevator Calculation: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 51 p.Development of Field Cultivation Work Technologies: Calculation method. instr. / J.Lācars,

J.Tupiņš. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 57 p.Mežs A., Vizbulis J. Volume Hydrodrive: Lecture. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 63 p.Moskvins G. Methods of Installation and Correction of Milk Meters Applied in Dairy Farming

and Determination of Regularity of Metrological Service: Teach. aid. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 42 p.

Perspective and Shadow Perspective / R.Žuka, M.Reķis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 82 p.Professor Oļģerts Ozols / L.Pēks . – Jelgava: LLU, 1994. – 111 p.Mathematical Modelling of Heat Processes: Method. instr. / U.Iljins, I.Ziemelis. – Jelgava: LLU,

1994. – 50 p.Technical Measurements: Laboratory work register / A.Čukure, I.Dukulis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1994.

– 19 p.

1995

Application of Asynchronous Motors in Agriculture: Method. aid. / A.Šnīders, J.Fridrihsons, R.Šeļegovskis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1995. – 82 p.

Calculation of Screw Conveyors: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1995. – 42 p.Grants Z. Problems and Development Perspectives of Jelgava Region Tractor Fleet. - Jelgava:

LLU, 1995. – 55 p.Faculty of Agricultural Mechanisation / J.Tupiņš, K.Vārtukapteinis– Jelgava: LLU, 1995. – 16 p.

14

Technological Design of Animal Breeding Farms: Aid for elabor.of course and diploma proj. / J.Priekulis, J.Latvietis, A.Nābels, A.Priekule, A.Veģe, S.Štrausa. – Jelgava: LLU, 1995. – 95 p.

Descriptive Geometry. Perspective and Shadow Perspective: Method. instr. / R.Žuka, M.Reķis, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 1995. – 54 p.

Descriptive Geometry. Shadow Design: Method. instr. / M.Aumale, R.Žuka. – Jelgava, 1995. – 59 p.

Technical Drawing of Wooden Products and their Parts: Method. instr. / M.Aumale, J.Čukurs, U.Vēveris. – Jelgava: LLU, 1995. – 40 p.

1996

Kažotnieks J. Production of Silage on Small and Medium Private Farms. – Ozolnieki: LLKC, 1996. – 13 p.

Kronbergs Ē., Kažotnieks J. Field Sprayers and their Operation.–Ozolnieki: LLKC, 1996. – 19 p.Design of Band Conveyors: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1996. – 69 p.Reductor Gear Drive Calculation: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1996. – 71 p.Theoretical Mechanics. Dynamics, Part 2. Lectures, Ed. O.Kepe and J.Vība / J.Vība, J.Svētiņš,

O.Grāpis. – Rīga: RTU, 1996. – 174 p.

1997

Amālija Cekuliņa – Dr. of Techn. sc., Professor / K.Vārtukapteinis – Jelgava: LLU, 1997. – 41 p.Jānis Kažoks / K.Vārtukapteinis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1997. – 32 p.Kažotnieks J. Ploughs and Ploughing. – Ozolnieki: LLKC, 1997. – 26 p.Kažotnieks J. Production of Silage. – Ozolnieki: LLKC, 1997. – 36 p.Kronbergs Ē., Kažotnieks J. Field Sprayers and their Operation.–Ozolnieki: LLKC, 1997. – 31 p.Machine Elements. Drives and their Elements: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU,

1997. – 50 p.Dictionary of Weed, Weed Group and Plant Protection Machinery Terminology / J.Ozols u.c. –

Skrīveri, 1997. – 300 p.Pommers J.G. etc. Driver ABS – Rīga: Jumava, 1997. – 314 p.Priekulis J., Kažotnieks J. Manure Removal from Animal Farms–Ozolnieki: LLKC, 1997.– 38 p.Vladimirs Jansons – Dr.of Techn. sc., Professor, Honoured Scientist and Technician /

K.Vārtukapteinis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1997. – 44 p.

1998

Avotiņš J. Research in Abrasive Materials: Method. instr. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 18 p.Avotiņš J. Research in Multiblade Cutters: Mehod. instr. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 21 p.Avotiņš J. Research in Part Size Dispersion: Method. instr. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 12 p.Avotiņš J. Research in Tool Geometry: Method. instr. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 13 p.Avotiņš J. Technology of Construction Materials. Development of Technological Processes:

Method. instr. - Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 69 p.Avotiņš J. Forming and Moulding: Method. instr. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 9 p.Dukulis I. Microsoft Word 7.0: Teaching aid. Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 152 p.Jānis Balsars – Engineer, Docent / K.Vārtukapteinis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 75 p.

15

Calculation of Load Lifting Mechanism: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 78 p.

Professor Aleksandrs Tabuns / K.Vārtukapteinis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 34 p.Šnīders A. Safety of Automation Devices and Systems: Theoretical Basis and Calculation

Methods: Teach. aid. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 80 p.Vārtukapteinis K., Čukure A. Faculty of Engineering. 2nd revised and supplemented edition. –

Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 71 p.Calculation of Single Beam Crane and Console Crane Metal Constructions: Method. instr. /

G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 100 p.

1999

Avotiņš J. Gear Sprocket Milling with Screw Module Milling Cutters: Method. instr. – Jelgava: LLU, 1998. – 18 p.

Avotiņš J. Gear Sprocket Cutting: Method. instr. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 14 p.Dukulis I. Auto CAD 14: Teaching aid. – Jelgava: I.Dukulis, 1999. – 39 p.Dukulis I. Corel Draw 8.0: Teaching aid. – Jelgava: I.Dukulis, 1999. – 30 p.Dukulis I. Microsoft Word 97: Teaching aid. – Jelgava: I.Dukulis, 1999. – 56 p.Dukulis I. Microsoft Exel 97: Teaching aid. – Jelgava: I.Dukulis, 1999. – 60 p.Fridrihsons J. Non-traditional Electric Heating and Optical Radiation Equipment. – Rīga:

Pētergailis, 1999. – 70 p.Screw Drive Calculation: Method. instr. / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 45 p.Hydraulics. Basic Level / D.Merkle, B.Šraiders, M.Toms / transl. G.Birzietis, J.Vizbulis, K.Počs,

G.Burks. – Festo Didactic, 2000. – 283 p.Construction Timber. Sorting. Visual Requirements of Coniferous Sawn Timber Sorted

According to Strength. Safety Criteria: LR Standard LVS 184: 1999. / V.Pušinskis, V.Kozuliņš, Z.Sarmulis. Reg. Nr.3052, 30.11.1999.

Agricultural Higher Education in Latvia. 1862-1999 / Editor-in-chief E.Bērziņš. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 373 p.

Institute of Agricultural Machinery / K.Vārtukapteinis, J.Palabinskis, G.Salcēviča. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 90 p.

Agricultural Science in Latvia in 1950-1990 / Ed. E.Bērziņš. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 210 p.Requirements and Proposals for Technological Design and Equipment of Animal Farms /

J.Priekulis, Z.Bērziņa, I.Keidāne etc. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 60 p.Faculty of Engineering. 3rd revised and supplemented edition / Vārtukapteinis K., Čukure A. –

Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 75 p.Theoretical Mechanics. Dynamics. Part 3. Lecture, Ed. O.Kepe and J.Vība / O.Kepe, J.Vība,

O.Grāpis, B.Grasmanis, J.Svētiņš. – Rīga: RTU, 1999. – 183 p.Descriptive Geometry: Teaching aid. – Part 4. Methods of Complex Technical Drawing

Reorganisation and Metrical Exercises / J.Čukurs, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 74 p.

Descriptive Geometry: Teaching aid. – Part 5. Axonometric Projections / J.Čukurs, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 20 p.

Descriptive Geometry: Teaching aid. – Part 6. Curves and Planes / J.Čukurs, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 26 p.

Descriptive Geometry: Teaching aid. – Part 7. Surface Cutting by Plane. Surface Layouts. Reciprocal Cutting of Surfaces / J.Čukurs, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 99 p.

Professor Indriķis Biernis / K.Vārtukapteinis, J.Tupiņš, A.Čukure. – Jelgava: LLU, 1999. – 67 p.

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2000

Avotiņš J. Technology of Construction Materials. Part1. Hot Processing of Metals. – Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 127 p.

Computer Net and Internet Services: Principles of Work with Computers / Dukulis I., Gultniece I., Ivane A. etc. – R.: Mācību grāmata, 2000. – 120 p.

Dukulis I. Microsoft Power Point 97: Teach. aid. – Jelgava: I.Dukulis, 2000. – 78 p.Dukulis I. Microsoft Power Point 2000: Teach. aid. – Jelgava: I.Dukulis, 2000. – 88 p.Electronic Tables Microsoft Excel: Principles of Work with Computers / Dukulis I., Gultniece I.,

Ivane A. etc. – R.: Mācību grāmata, 2000. – 160 p.Engineergraphics. Construction Technical Drawings and Electro Installation Plans: Teach. aid. /

J.Čukurs, A.Galiņš, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 67 p.Economic Evaluation of Agriculture Work Mechanisation / J.Priekulis, N.Strautnieks. – Jelgava:

LLU, 2000. – 29 p.Graduates from the Faculty of Agricultural Mechanisation in 1980 / K.Vārtukapteinis, A.Čukure.

– Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 100 p.LUA Ulbroka Scientific Center (Latvian Scientific Research Institute of Agricultural

Mechanisation and Electrification) 1960-2000 / E.Lāčgalvis, J.Pankovs, A.Vilde. – Ulbroka: Ulbroka SC, 2000. – 133 p.

Machine Elements and Lifting – Transport Machines: Control work, course project and course paper assignments and method. instr. for part-time students / G.Uzkliņģis. – Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 120 p.

Microsoft Power Point 2000: Teach. aid. / I. Dukulis. – Jelgava, 2000. – 88 p.Moskvins G. Artificial Intellect. – Jelgava, 2000. – 275 p.First Steps in the Work with Computers: Principles of Work with Computers / Dukulis I.,

Gultniece I., Ivane A. etc. – Rīga: Mācību grāmata, 2000. – 152 p.Prezentation Material Preparation Package Microsoft Power Point: Principles of Work with

Computers / Dukulis I., Gultniece I., Ivane A. etc. – R.: Mācību grāmata, 2000. – 112 p.Priekulis J. Efficient Technology and Mechanisation in Milk Farming. – Jelgava: LLU, 2000. –

148 p.Faculty of Engineering. 4th revised and supplemented edition / K.Vārtukapteinis, A.Čukure. –

Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 100 lp.Text Redactor Microsoft Word: Principles of Work with Computers / Dukulis I., Gultniece I.,

Ivane A. etc. – R.: Text book, 2000. – 256 p.Descriptive Geometry: Teach. aid. – Part 1. Projection Methods. Point Orthogonal Projections. /

J.Čukurs, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 35 p.Descriptive Geometry: Teach. aid. – Part 2. Straight Line Orthogonal Projections. Point and

Straight Line Correlated Position. Correlated Positions of Two Straight Lines / J.Čukurs, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 33 p.

Descriptive Geometry: Teach. aid. – Part 3. Plane, its Formation and Determination in Complex Technical Drawings. Correlated Positions of Geometric Elements / J.Čukurs, M.Aumale. – Jelgava: LLU, 2000. – 50 p.

Design of WWW pages: Principles of Work with Computers / Dukulis I., Gultniece I., Ivane A. etc. – R.: Text book, 2000. – 120 p.

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6. Patents Obtained by Teachers and Employees of the FE in 1991–2000

1991

Ventilated Storage: Patent of SU 1764558, publ. 18.05.1991 / E.Bērziņš, J.Palabinskis.Portable Greenhouse: Patent of SU 1671194, publ. 22.04.1991 / J.Fridrihsons.Method of Determination of the Warmth Physical Characteristics in Semi Restricted

Environment: Patent of SU 1659814, publ. 01.03.1991 / J.Fridrihsons.Method of Determination of the Warmth Physical Characteristics in Electrically Heated

environment: Patent of SU 1689826, publ. 08.07.1991 / J.Fridrihsons.

1992

Equipment for Heating and Radiation of Farm Animals and Poultry: Patent of SU 1789311, publ. 22.09.1992 / J.Fridrihsons.

Equipment for Electric Heating and Lighting of Rooms: Patent of SU 1783962, publ. 22.08.1992 / J.Fridrihsons.

1993. gads

Selbsttätiger Milchzäler für eine Melkanlage: Europeisches Patent Nr.0381762, publ. 15.12.1993 / G.Moskvins.

Vorrichtung zum automatischen Messen der durch eine Melkanlage gemolkenen Milchmenge: Europeisches Patent Nr.0406426, publ. 15.12.1993 / G.Moskvins.

Anordnung zur Bestimmung des Produktivitätsindex und der Futtermenge bei Tieren: Europeisches Patent Nr.0382852, publ. 15.12.1993 / G.Moskvins.

Vorrichtung und Verfahren zur Bestimmung der Milchmenge von einer gemolkenen Kuh: Europeisches Patent Nr.0372089, publ. 15.12.1993 / G.Moskvins.

Vorrichtung und Vervahren zum automatischen Messen der Milchmenge: Europeisches Patent Nr.0471076, publ. 15.12.1993 / G.Moskvins.

1994

Method of Grain Drying: Patent of Russian Federation RU 2016504 CI, publ. 30.07.1994 / E.Berziņš, P.Rajeckis, A.Āboltiņš.

1995

Plate Chain: LR patent Nr.10417 B, publ. 27.09.1995 / G.Uzkliņģis.

1996

Active Ventilation Equipment for Agricultural Products: LR patent Nr.10740, publ. 20.08.1996 / E.Bērziņš, J Palabinskis.

Equipment for Heating and Radiation of Farm Animals: LR patent Nr.10553, publ. 20.04.1996 / J.Fridrihsons.

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1997

Plant Artificial Lighting and Watering Equipment: LR patent Nr.11655, publ. 20.08.1997 / J.Fridrihsons.

Sludge Abstraction Equipment: LR patent Nr.11752, publ. 20.10.1997 / Ē.Kronbergs, A.Kaķītis, I.Plūme.

Productive Domestic Animal Heating and Radiation Equipment: LR patent Nr.11657, publ. 20.08.1997 / J.Fridrihsons.

Three-phase Electro Motor Combined Protection and Diagnostics Device: LR patent Nr.11876 B, publ. 20.12.1997 / A.Grundulis, A.Šnīders, P.Leščevics, A.Galiņš.

Three-phase Current Phase Deviation Transformer: LR patent Nr.11767 B, publ. 20.10.1997 / A. Grundulis, A.Šnīders.

Water Basin Cleaning Device: LR patent Nr.11753, publ. 20.10.1997 / Ē.Kronbergs, A.Kaķītis, I.Plūme.

1998

Construction of Electro Heated Floor: LR patent Nr.12138, publ. 20.10.1998 / J.Fridrihsons, P.Leščevics.

Determination Method of Warmth Physical Characteristics of Electrically Heated Building Constructions: LR patent Nr.12098, publ. 20.10.1998 / J.Fridrihsons.

Hydrothermal Electric Lighting System: LR patent Nr.11935, publ. 20.04.1998 / J.Fridrihsons.Combined Lighting Equipment: LR patent Nr.12141, publ. 22.11.1998 / J.Fridrihsons.Chain Winch: LR patent Nr.12127, publ.20.12.1998 / Ē.Kronbergs.Method of Production of Bent Layered Parts Based on Wood: LV patent Nr.12104, publ.

20.09.1998 / G.Vērdiņš, K.Rocēns, J.Brauns.Swelling Pressure Determination Method: LV patent Nr.12079, publ.20.07.1998 / G.Vērdiņš,

K.Rocēns.Water Conveyance Control Method in Drying Processes: LR patent Nr.12096, publ. 20.07.1998 /

E.Bērziņš.

1999

Belt Cutting Device for Water Basins: LR patent Nr.12155, publ. 20.02.1999 / Ē.Kronbergs, A.Kaķītis, I.Plūme.

Three-phase Electro Generator Combined Protection and Current Stabilisation Device: LR patent Nr.12336 B, publ. 20.12.1999 / A.Grundulis, A.Šnīders, A.Galiņš.

Construction of Composite Covers: LV patent Nr.12191, publ. 20.03.1999 / G.Vērdiņš, K.Rocēns, D.Serdjuks, L.Pakrastiņš.

2000

Plant Material Conditioning Roller Mechanism: LR patent Nr.12409 B, publ. 20.01.2000 / Ē.Kronbergs.

Floor Heating Eguipment: LR patent Nr.12465, publ. 20.07.2000 / Ē.Kronbergs, I.Plūme, I.Ziemelis.

Squeezing Device for Testing of Band-type Material Yield: LR patent Nr.12435, publ. 20.04.2000 / Ē.Kronbergs, A.Strupausis.

Method of Carotene Concentrate Abstraction: LR patent Nr.12481, publ. 20.09.2000 / L.Līve, U.Kauliņš, A.Kaķītis.

19

Part 1

Academic (Bachelor) Study Programin Agricultural Engineering

20

1.1. The aim and tasks of the program

The aim: to train qualified, creative and competent specialists in the sphere of agricultural sciences who could:

- Successfully work in engineering – technical, manager, government and municipality posts related to agricultural machinery, energetics, autotransport or food production fields;

- Continue studies at the Master Degree Course in agricultural engineering science and related study programs and self–educate.

The tasks: To understand and acquire nature and society development correlations, basics

of management psychology and management skills through general education disciplines (applied psychology, ethics, aesthetics, sociology, philosophy, theory of economics, principles of rights, informatics, ecology, human protection, entrepreneurship, accountancy, principles of management, basics of engineering work);

To acquire the structure and principles of operation of machines, mechanisms, and energetic devices, technologies of their operation processes and solution of related engineering tasks through engineering science fundamental disciplines (mathematics, physics, chemistry, heat engineering, electrical engineering, hydraulics, electronics, machine dynamics, material resistance, mechanics, material science, descriptive geometry, engineer graphics etc.);

Through special disciplines forming the basis of subprograms: In agricultural mechanization – to acquire the principles of agricultural

technological processes, up–dated mechanized technologies, machinery applied in their implementation, basic principles of machinery formation and design, efficient usage and service of machinery, renovation of operational abilities of machines and technological equipment;

In entrepreneurship in agro service – to acquire additionally skills to organize and manage supply of agricultural enterprises with new technologies and machinery, coordinated operation of agro service enterprises in pagasts or regions, machine rings, cooperatives and other efficient machine usage formations;

In autotransport – to acquire technologies and machinery used in autotransport, evaluation of their suitability and principles of efficient application, related methods of solution of technical and organizational tasks in freight and passenger transportation, automobile and spare part marketing, traffic organization and management;

In food engineering – to acquire basic knowledge in main food raw materials, basic principles of the main food production technologies and up–dated machinery used in it, basic principles of machinery design, service, and efficient application;

In agricultural energetics – to acquire the basic principles of construction and operation of electric machines and devices applied in agriculture, basic principles of construction and operation of electro and heat supply systems, technology and organization of application, service and repair, basics of assembling, operation and repair of 20, 6 and 0,4 kV nets, principles of power stations and alternative energy equipment and their operation, organization of Latvenergo net region work.

21

Expected results:- Youngsters interested in engineering related to agriculture acquire knowledge that

makes it possible for them to continue education in the Master Degree and Doctoral studies, to do scientific and pedagogical work in the chosen field;

- State institutions and private structures dealing with agricultural machinery, energetics, auto transport, food production are supplied with academically and technically educated specialists who are competent in items related to the chosen spheres and can fit in well in Latvian and international circulation;

- The acquired education ensures pre-requisites for successful cooperation with foreign partners;

- Ensures competitiveness in the local and international market on a sufficient level.

1.2. Qualification obtained

After acquisition of the Bachelor study program, elaboration and successful defence of the Bachelor work the Bachelor Degree in Engineering is awarded.

1.3. Further education possibilities for graduates

The Bachelor degree ensures a possibility to continue studies in the Master degree course in Agricultural Engineering, in other Engineering Master degree programs in Latvian or foreign higher educational establishments or other Master study programs if the enrolment regulations allow for it. The graduates of the Faculty often study also at the LUA Economics, Society Administration Sociology and Education Master study programs as well as in Master study programs at the Riga Technical University Riga Business School and Latvia University Institute of International Relations.

1.4. Syllabus

The total volume of the study program (Appendix 1.4) depending on the subprogram is from 180 to 181.5 CP*, 157–158.5 CP of which is the theoretical course in compliance with the Latvian Bachelor Academic Degree study program standard (Confirmed by the Council of Higher Education (AIP) 25.01.1999). 83-87.5 CP includes academic disciplines comprising 53–55 % of the theoretical course.Humanitarian subjects include 15 CP (9 %), social subjects – 9 CP (6 %), nature and technical subjects – 134 CP (85 %) in the program. Special study subjects comprise 48–60.5 CP (30 %-39 %). Together with the elective subjects in the amount of 10–23 CP (6 –15 %) the special subjects ensure acquisition of knowledge and skills in academic and professional field and ensure the possibility of specialization. In special subjects students elaborate course papers and projects promoting acquisition of skills in problem solving and independent studies. Deeper specialization is achieved during development of the Bachelor work 10 CP (5.5 %).Teaching practice and production practice comprise 5 CP (2.7 %) each in the study plan.

22

The Agricultural Engineering study program is divided in five subprograms – Agricultural Mechanization (education classification code 44529), Entrepreneurship in Agroservice (44529), Autotransport (44529), Food Engineering (44529) and Agricultural Energetics (445231). Every subprogram has common subjects in the amount of 68.5 CP (37.8 %). The first year curriculum is identical for all subprograms, in the second year there are different special disciplines for the Agricultural Energetics subprogram, for other subprograms the curriculum is the same also in the second year.Agricultural Mechanization, Entrepreneurship in Agroservice, Autotransport and Food Engineering subprogram study plans are coordinated with the Bachelor standard in Mechanical Engineering (code 44522, Appendix 1.5.), Agricultural Energetics subprogram – with Bachelor standard in Electrical Engineering and Electronics (code 44523, Appendix 1.5.).* 1 credit point (CP) corresponds to 1 week of studies.

1.5. Comparison to European state study programs

Bachelor study program in Agricultural Engineering is compared to analogous study programs of several European universities (Estonian, Lithuanian and Norwegian Agricultural Universities, Cranfield University Silsoe College (Great Britain), Linkoping University (Sweden), Braunshweig Technical University and Hohenheim University (Germany). According to the contents Great Britain, Norwegian, Lithuanian and Estonian higher school analogous study programs are most similar to the Agricultural Engineering study program. At German universities (also in Finland and some other countries) agricultural engineering is usually only a part of machine building program at technical universities except Hohenheim University the agricultural machinery program of which is closer to agricultural engineering study programs found in Great Britain and USA. The main subject CP in all programs can be mutually compared (see Appendix 1.6.). Experience of several teachers acquired during visits to these higher schools made it possible to compare not only theoretically but also on the spot.

All analysed study programs have similar program development methods, organization of the study process in lectures, seminars, practical and laboratory sessions, individual and group work, in elaboration of course papers and projects as well as in oral, written and accumulating examinations. All universities have teacher and student exchange programs to improve qualification, there are possibilities of specialization.

The most essential difference in EU universities is the fact that Bachelor study programs last mainly for 3–3.5 years with the total number of credit points 120–140. In study programs of the universities compared usually there are not such subjects as sports, foreign languages and humanitarian subjects included. Relations of the Faculty of Engineering (FE) students and teachers are more formal, conveying of information and assessment of knowledge are more stressed, teacher and student team work is paid less attention to. At the LUA there are comparatively less possibilities to use up–dated information technologies in the process of studies – 53 % of the FE students are satisfied with the possibilities to acquire computer skills but 47 % of them are not satisfied.

Comparing to the EU university study programs the weaknesses of the FE study program are: a large number of disciplines with relatively small amount of each hindering the formation of the subject links; the system of courses does not allow to organize a flexible study process; students have less competence in foreign languages, thus limited possibilities to gather information; as well as insufficient materially technical resources (39 % of students acknowledge it to be insufficient) and teaching literature.

23

The advantages of our study program are as follows – working in more difficult material conditions with insufficient number of personal computers students acquire manual technical drawing so developing spatial thinking.

Proposals: to increase the active proportion of independent work in the process of studies (in academic year 2000/2001 the Latvia University of Agriculture (LUA) passed over to 16 classroom lessons per week instead of 24 lessons previously); to introduce the subject system in planning of sessions; to develop the system of elective subjects. At the same time it can be considered that the present study programs are in compliance with the Latvian secondary and higher education system, information system and science statement level, nevertheless development of the study programs should be continued.

1.6. Perspective evaluation of the study program

Perspective development possibilities and the development model were elaborated and discussed at the strategic planning seminar with participation of teachers of the faculty, employers, students and Master degree students.

Starting with the academic year 2000/2001 two academic groups are completed in the Agricultural Engineering academic undergraduate program. Formerly all 100 enrolled students were studying in the academic study program. Considering the large elimination of students a professional study program was introduced for a part of students. In the average 60–70 % of students graduate from the faculty, so such number of students in the program complies with the state interests. It is envisaged that the knowledge of youngsters in foreign languages and availability of computers at secondary schools will improve, so in the future it will be possible to exclude foreign languages and principles of informatics from the list of compulsory subjects. A specific feature of the Bachelor study program is ability of students to study independently. On September 1, 2000 the LUA reduced the number of classroom sessions (from 24 to 16 h per week) increasing the proportion of independent work of students with the purpose to make Bachelor studies closer to the work of the departments/institutes and to establish a closer link between students and teachers. Considering the experience of the first year a decision was taken still to make it possible to return to 24 hour classroom sessions in the basic subjects according to the opinion of the faculties. About a half of the students having the Bachelor degree continue their studies at the Master degree course, so there is a possibility to guide the most capable students for renovation of the teaching staff.

Gradually also the materially technical basis of the study program improves: laboratory equipment, availability of computers. Cooperation with different companies is used to obtain visual aids. Several necessary computer programs are obtained and the number of them is being increased in the limits of possibility. In 2001 all computers of the faculty will be compatible. The students have a sufficiently wide possibility to use information in the field of Agricultural Engineering available in the world.

More attention in the process of studies will be paid to up–dated production, design and information technologies and the leading companies of the state in the appropriate field will join the process of training. More and more wider international relations between the teachers and foreign universities and scientific institutions are developing, cooperation and student exchange contracts are signed that helps the students of the Agricultural engineering science academic study program acquire experience in foreign countries and additionally study abroad.

1.7. Organisation of studies and assessment of knowledge

24

The curriculum ensures a subordinated system of acquisition of subjects with information acquired in the subjects taught before being the basis for acquisition of every new subject. Such planning of subjects ensures logically consistent acquisition of knowledge.

Many teaching disciplines include teaching excursions to production sites, companies and exhibitions, also laboratory and practical work at enterprises. The aim of it is to enlarge the outlook of the students and to extend their knowledge.

Organization of the study process is based on centralized planning of lectures, laboratory and practical work.

Regular assessment of student independent work is carried out at laboratory and practical work, assessment of understanding of themes at seminars and tests, elaboration and defence of course papers and projects, test or examination closing the subject, defence of teaching practice accounts. The knowledge is assessed according to 10 grade system in compliance with the criteria confirmed by the LUA Senate.

The studies are arranged according to the course system. Students are moved to the next year after acquisition of the previous year study plan. At present this system is suitable but as the possibilities for students to study and have practice abroad become wider the system should be made more flexible giving students the possibility to plan the length and regime of their studies. For this purpose a special work team is established at the LUA Senate.

1.8. Information on the academic staff

36–44 teachers are included in the study program depending on the subprogram who conscientiously carry out teaching methodical and scientific work. They include 12–19% professors, 16–22% associate professors, 22–23% docents, 27–38% lecturers and 5–6% assistants. It means that more than a half of the teachers (57–68%) are docents and professors.

Distribution of the study program teachers according to the scientific degrees is as follows: Habilitated Doctors – 12–17%, Doctors – 40–50%. 30–41% of the teachers have the Master academic degree, 5–6 % of the teachers without scientific and academic degrees are included in teaching.

Among the FE teachers participating in implementation of the Agricultural Engineering academic undergraduate study program there is one Habilitated Doctor who is a corresponding member of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 8 professors and docents are members of the Latvian Academy of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, the Dean of the faculty K.Vārtukapteinis has been the President of the Latvian Association of Agricultural Engineers since it was established in 1995.

73 % of the teachers have visited various Western universities to improve their qualification.

1.9. Insurance and management of studies

The centre of Agricultural Engineering studies is the Faculty of Engineering. The most part of acquisition of the study program special, elective subjects and partly also academic subjects is carried out here. Sessions in some subjects take place also in other faculties of the LUA. Since January 1, 1998 Ulbroka Scientific Centre – former Latvian State Agricultural Mechanization and Energetics Scientific Research Institute has been included in the faculty structure. The scientists of the centre participate in insurance of the study process and at times several visiting sessions take place in Ulbroka. The study process is ensured by quite well – equipped classrooms and laboratories. For training of Agricultural Engineering and other

25

program and faculty students classrooms of the faculty are equipped with overhead projectors, video materials are used in the process of studies. FE computer class with 12 computers is used in the process of training. Nevertheless, it meets practically only the needs for acquisition of informatics and modelling elective course, it is topical to have at least another computer class for acquisition of computer graphics and related subjects as well as for preparation of course projects and Bachelor work. A computer class of the Institute of Agricultural Energetics with six computers given as a present by VAS Latvenergo in the frame of cooperation and a computer class of the Institute of Education and Home Economics with five computers are available to the students.

Acquisition of special and engineering technical subjects takes place in the FE laboratories the equipment of which is being improved within the limits of possibility.

The teaching literature necessary for acquisition of the subjects included in the study program is available at the LUA library. Availability of literature can be considered to be satisfactory although there is a lack of textbooks on several subjects in Latvian. Therefore, the teachers of the faculty are working to prepare and publish abstracts of lectures. Within the limits of possibility the latest text books published abroad are being purchased. Besides, it is possible to read literature at the library electronically.

The order of announcement and evaluation of the study disciplines is determined by several normative documents confirmed by the LUA Academic Council. The subject program elaborated by the leading teacher of the subject is discussed at the Institute/Department meeting, after that it is externally expertised, then coordinated with the program manager and the dean. The principles of study program development are determined by regulations confirmed by the LUA Senate on 12.03.1997. Study programs/subprograms are developed by work teams under supervision of the manager of the study program/subprogram, accepted by the commission of program/subprogram managers, discussed at the Faculty Managing Board and confirmed at the LUA Senate. Students are also included in the Managing Board and Senate. The syllabus of the program is analysed by the program manager preventing the possible repetition of themes or including a missing theme in the program. Such practice ensures versatile evaluation of the study program.

1.10. Creative and research work

Scientific work of the students is guided by the teachers of the faculty institutes. They offer themes related to their scientific work and students choose those they are interested in. Theses of the best scientific works of the LUA students are published every year in a special publication. The Bachelor work is an analytical, technological or practical solution of a problem in a branch of engineering science corresponding to the Bachelor studies.

The scope of the research work is wide. The Bachelor works dwell on items related to evaluation of different agricultural production technological processes and their technological insurance, usage and service of auto transport, agricultural technical and technological service, different problems in energetics, usage of alternative kinds of energy in different spheres of economy, application of alternative fuels in power vehicles, efficient usage and service of machinery in different fields not related to agriculture. Scientific advisers of the themes follow the solution of these problems in Latvia and abroad, so the analysis of the theme is up–dated and topical.

It should be noted that the students’ interest in research work is not sufficiently active, one of the reasons for that is insufficient activity of the teachers to involve students in it.

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1.11. Quality insurance system

6 faculties of the LUA, 2 Institutes, the library are involved in implementation of the Agricultural Engineering study program. The Academic Council of the LUA carries out methodical work of the studies, its organisation is ensured by the Department of Studies. Study plans of all faculties are at its disposal, analysis and coordination of them is carried out regularly to ensure efficient process of studies.

During the studies students are offered to take part in evaluation of the study programs. Anonymous inquiries are organized in the syllabus and quality of teaching. Four representatives of the student self-government are working at the faculty Managing Board participating in taking decisions on items related to implementation of the process of studies.

During the teaching practice and excursions students get acquainted with the work of the leading firms and enterprises of different profile, students meet the best and most experienced specialists of different branches. During the process of studies lectures and seminars are organized with participation of specialists from the Ministry of Agriculture and other ministries and from different production, service and machinery dealer enterprises.

Students can additionally learn foreign languages at the Department of Languages in non-free courses (English, German, French, Swedish). Students can go in for different kinds of sports at the Sports centre in payment groups additionally to the planned sessions. Students can take also part in different amateur groups: choirs, dancing and drama groups, and brass band.

1.12. Summary

Agricultural Engineering academic study program complies with the requirements and aims stated. It can ensure acquisition of basic knowledge in engineering and basics of the branch in agricultural mechanization and energetics, autotransport, food engineering and entrepreneurship in agro service, the acquired amount of knowledge allows to continue studies at the Master Degree course. The academic study disciplines include fundamental, humanitarian, economic and special study subjects and related course papers and projects as well as the elective discipline block. The program complies with the Bachelor standard ensuring students the possibility to move from one higher school to another, continue studies abroad or continue studies at a corresponding science branch Master Degree course at any higher educational establishment of Latvia.

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Appendix 1.2.

Standardized Part of the Engineering Bachelor Study Program in Mechanical Engineering (code 44522)

(Coordinated with the Faculty of Transport and Mechanical Engineering of the Riga Technical University)

No Disciplines Volume, CP1. Mathematics 132. Physics (incl. Electrical Engineering and Electronics) 103. Chemistry 24. Informatics 55. Engineergraphics (incl. Computer Graphics) 56. Material Science (incl. Technology of Materials) 67. Theoretical Mechanics 58. Strength of Materials 59. Thermoengineering 210. Machine Elements 211. Flow Mechanics 212. Metrology 313. Economics 214. Rights 215. Civil Protection 116. Humanitarian and Social block 5

Total: 73

Standardized Part of the Engineering Bachelor Study Program in Electrical Engineering and Electronics (code 44523)

(Coordinated with the Faculty of Energetic and Electrical Engineering of the Riga Technical University)

No Disciplines Volume, CP1. Mathematics 162. Physics 103. Theoretical principles of Electrical Engineering and

Electric Measurement14

4. Transmission of Signals 35. Informatics 86. Engineergraphics 27. Electronics 48. Principles of Control Theory 29. Economics 310. Humanitarian and Social block 10

Total: 72

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Appendix 1.3.

Proportion (%) of the Agricultural Engineering Academic Undergraduate Study Program Disciplines in Comparison with Related Study Programs of

Other Universities

No DisciplineLUA FE, %

RTU Autotransp.

spec., %

Most corresponding higher school to the FE discipline

volume

At 14 EU and 8 USA universities

University % min, % max, %1. Mathematics 9.5 8.2 Iowa University 9.4 6.0 16.22. Phisics 4.5 3.3 Athens Agric. University 4.4 3.1 9.53. Chemistry 1.6 1.6 Cranfield University 1.7 1.0 8.04. Humanitarian discipl. 9.0 6.5 Iowa University 8.8 0.0 13.95. Mechanics 6.2 4.3 Nebraska University 6.6 1.9 14.46. Strenght of Materials 6.0 4.3 Cranfield University 4.4 1.6 10.97. Hydraulics 2.5 1.1 Nebraska University 2.9 1.6 8.7 8. Electrical Engineering 3.7 2.7 Cranfield University 4.7 2.2 16.99. Plant, Animal

Breeding3.5 - Cranfield University 3.4 2.2 16.9

10. Heat Engineering 2.0 1.6 Athens Agric. University 1.6 1.6 3.811. Elective Disciplines 15.0 19.0 Norwegian Agric. Univers. 17.0 3.5 32.0

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Appendix 1.4.

Qualification of the Study Program Academic Staff According to Subprograms

1. Agricultural Mechanization

Posts Number % Scient. and Acad. Degrees Number %

Professors 7 18 Dr.habil. 6 15Assoc. Professors 7 18 Dr. 20 50Docents 13 32 Masters 12 30Lecturers 11 27 Profession. qualific. 2 5Assistants 2 5

Total: 40 100 Total: 40 100

2. Entrepreneurship in Agroservice



Total: 44 100 Total: 44 100

3. Autotransport



Total: 37 100 Total: 37 100

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4. Food Engineering



Total: 42 100 Total: 42 100

5. Agricultural Energetics



Total: 36 100 Total: 36 100

Appendix 1.5.

Assessment of the Study Process and Its Results in Inquiries

In order to assess the study process and its results several anonymous inquiries of employers, graduates, students and teachers were carried out. 16 questionnaires were received from employers, 78 questionnaires from full-time and 41 – from part-time students, 136 – from the faculty graduates.

The employers evaluated the graduate training level. 12.5% of the graduates have excellent training level according to the opinion of the employers (two questionnaires), 81.2% (13) – good and 6.3% (1) satisfactory.

The most part of the respondents consider that the graduates are able to work independently, they have sufficiently wide outlook, they can maintain good contact with the colleagues, solve practical and theoretical problems.

Answering the question who the employers would prefer hiring for work-graduates from the FE or other graduates from the corresponding specialities - 73% gave a positive answer, but the other 2.7% did not answer unanimously.

31

In general, proposals of the employers suggest that more attention during the process of studies should be paid to acquisition of the management skills , economic evaluation of problem solving and market analysis, narrower specialisation and practical training.

Students assessed the study process itself in the inquiry. Full-time and part-time students of the second, third and fourth years took part in the inquiry.

Answering the question – are democratic principles observed in the management of the study process – 83% of the full-time students-respondents gave a positive answer, 10% - answered negatively, 7% have no definite option on this question. Commenting upon the negative answers the students criticise mainly the demand of the teachers to compulsory attend lectures. Human relations of the administration, teachers and students are assessed positively by 94% of the respondents, negatively – by 3% and 3% of the students-respondents have no opinion on this question. 40% of the part-time students are generally satisfied with the proportion of lectures, practical and laboratory work, 23% of them consider that it should be better to have more practical and laboratory work, 20% - to have more lectures, 13% of them acknowledge that introductory and review lectures play a significant role, but 4% of them, on the contrary, deny it. Answering the question on the necessity of academic and professional studies in the program of part-time studies 75% of the answers indicate that both kinds of studies should be elective, 15% consider that only academic studies are needed, 11% - professional studies.

90% students are satisfied with the professional qualification of teachers, 85% - with their pedagogical competence. 78% of students are satisfied with possibilities to consult the teachers, 22% consider that this possibility should be made wider in some subjects.

53% of the respondents are satisfied with the possibilities to train their computer skills at the faculty, 47% are not satisfied.

92% of full-time students are satisfied with the proportion of lectures, laboratory and practical work. 13% of the respondents have indicated the necessity to increase the proportion of practical and laboratory work in physics, informatics and technical subjects. In the study year 2001/2002 the proportion of laboratory and practical work will be increased in mathematics, physics and chemistry.

In the inquiry of graduates their kind of work, place of living and self-assessment of the results of their studies were clarified.

54% of the respondents live in the country, 46% - in the city. 20.8% of them are engaged in private business, 14.8% - on farms, 9.4% - in co-operative enterprises, 6.7% in forestry and 6.7% in pagast municipalities, 6.0% - at secondary educational establishments, 4.7% - at automobile service enterprises, 4.0% - at agricultural machinery service enterprises, 3.4% - at higher educational establishments and 3.4% - in the police, 2.7% - at foreign companies and in regional municipalities, auto transport service – 2.0% in each, at agricultural product processing enterprises, building, agricultural advisory service, technical supervision system, Road Traffic, Safety Department, CSDD, insurance system – 1.3% in each and at an electro engineering enterprise, heat engineering enterprise, gas supply, press, customs, state defence forces, bank and Saeima – 0.7% in each (one person).

The main tasks of the graduates at the present work place can be divided as follows: production – 19.2%, service and application of machinery – 15.6%, administrative work and team managing – 13.6% in each, trade – 7.2%, accountancy and finance – 6.0%, pedagogical work – 5.2%, work with computers – 4.8%, collecting and processing of information and solving of strategic problems – 4.4% in each, consulting – 3.2%, designing – 1.6%, research work – 1.2%.

The graduates assess the level of their training after graduation from the faculty as follows: excellent – 7.6%, good – 74.2%, satisfactory – 18.2%. None of the respondents have indicated poor level of training, 84% of the graduates have acknowledged that they have had a need to apply their knowledge in engineer technical calculations, designing, technical drawing etc.

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The graduates have acknowledged the special technical subjects as well as economics, psychology, management and marketing to be most useful at their work. The graduates have mentioned that the volume of the following subjects should be enlarged: foreign languages, psychology, management, entrepreneurship, and information technologies. The have listed mainly political subjects, especially those popularised during the soviet times, as being unnecessary to include them in the curriculum.

The graduates propose to make training closer to today's practice, to pay more attention to acquisition of practical skills and introduction of up-dated teaching aids.

Appendix 1.6.

Bachelor Works and Diploma Projects Elaborated and Defended in 2001

In 2001 the full-time students graduated from the faculty studying according to the new study plan that envisages a Bachelor work in the conclusion. The part-time students of this year finished their studies according to the former study plan that envisages a diploma project as a final work. More time for elaboration and wider volume was envisaged for the diploma project. Diploma projects were defended also by those several graduates, who had completed the theoretical study course in the previous year, started to elaborate a diploma project but not finished and defended it.

The themes of Bachelor works and diploma projects are confirmed by the LUR Rector regulation No 03-26 on 04.06.2001.

No Student Theme Assessment

Auto transport subprogram

1. Alksnis Jānis Biomass Transportation in Soft Tanks.

excellent (9)

2. Arcihovskis Vitālijs Design of Technical Service Station Rēzekne Painting Plant.*

good (7)

3. Augulis Arvis Design of Auxiliary Equipment for Mercedes Benz Car Service and Repair.

excellent (9)

4. Bukalders Guntis Data Base for Automobile Traction Calculation and its Application in Practice.

with honours (10)

5. Elsiņš Edgars Modelling of Internal Engine Thermodynamic Processes.

with honours (10)

6. Gubarevs Sergejs SIA Signum Quality Management Conception.

very good (8)

7. Jaudzems Jānis Investigations in Passenger Flow in the Route Jelgava–Rīga and Efficiency of Usage of Minibuses.

very good (8)

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8. Klauseks Gundars (nekl.)

Automobile service Enterprise.* excellent (9)

9. Kurklietis Vilnis SIA Auto Kardāns Quality Management Project.

very good (8)

10. Kursišs Rolands Quality System of Technical Inspection Organisation at Jelgava CSDD.

very good (8)

11. Krjukovs Artis Restoration of Parts with Plasma Fusion Method.

excellent (9)

12. Mihņevičs Raimonds (nekl.)

Design of Aizkraukle Region Automobile Technical Inspection and Diagnostic Centre.*

very good (8)

13. Ozoliņš Arvis Production of Bio Diesel Full and Application in Internal Combustion Engines.

excellent (9)

14. Pīrs Edmunds AS Autoremonts Marketing Research.

very good (8)

15. Putniņš Raitis Production of Bio ethanol and Application in Diesel Engines.

excellent (9)

16. Skrastiņš Māris Reduction of Car Exhaust Gas Toxicity through Application of Ethanol Admix in Fuel.

with honours (10)

17. Sobuts Arvīds Analysis of Changes in the Latvian Automobile Fleet.

very good (8)

18. Sondars Aldis Analysis of Car Technical Inspection Results.

very good (8)

19. Stūrmanis Andris (nekl.)

Analysis of Road Accidents in Latvia.*

good (7)

20. Šmits Mareks Mechanisation of Compact Biomass Transportation.

with honours (10)

21. Valters Raimonds Design of Car TI and Repair Plant. excellent (9)22. Viklants Artis Application of Aluminium in

Automobile Building and Mechanical Properties of Plastic Deformed Aluminium.

excellent (9)

Agricultural Energetics Subprogram

1. Alksne Antra Analysis of Solar Collector Application Possibilities in Latvia.

excellent (9)

2. Baranovska Loreta Production of Bio Diesel Fuel and Application in Co-generation Equipment.

very good (8)

3. Hmara Natālija Production of Electricity using Solar Energy.

very good (8)

4. Kacēvičs Atris Evaluation of Conformity of Electro Equipment.

very good (8)

5. Kaminskis Uldis Optimisation of Pump Station Operation Regime.

with honours (10)

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6. Kurte Elīna Additional Heating of Houses Using Solar Energy.*

excellent (9)

7. Lagūns Igors Design of Flat Central Heating System Rebuilding into Separate Gas Heating.

very good (8)

8. Līduma Sandra Influence of Separate Electro energy Producers on the Economic Characteristics of VAS Latvenergo Subsidiary Southern Electric Nets.

excellent (9)

9. Matvejevs Viktors Private House Heating System Using Liquid Full.

good (7)

10. Mozulis Imants (nekl.) Design of Small HES.* with honours (10)11. Muizinika Lilita Analysis of Small Co-generation

Station Electro energy Tariffs.excellent (9)

12. Neifelds Imants (nekl.) Electro supply Project of Talsi Region Mērsrags Pagast Jaunsmēdiņi.*

excellent (9)

13. Strautniece Iveta Analysis of Separate Gas Heating Boiler House Efficiency.

very good (8)

14. Mārtiņš Zīraks Analysis Electro supply Using Wind and Solar Energy through Application of Up-dated Accumulation Device.

very good (8)

15. Zorgenberga Gita Economic Analysis of Pump Station Energoefficiency.

with honours (10)

Entrepreneurship in Agro service Subprogram

1. Nulle Imants Cereal Biomass Compaction Technologies for Production of Energy.

with honours (10)

2. Zujs Valdis Evaluation of Milk Production Technology and Machine System for Rezekne Region Pušu Pagast Farm.

excellent (9)

Food Engineering Subprogram

1. Leperis Māris Design of Apple Processing Plants at Riga Region Inciems SIA Rosība.*

excellent (9)

2. Mažrims Andris Design of Fish Processing Line at Sabile Fruit and Vegetable Processing Plants.*

excellent (9)

Agricultural Mechanisation Subprogram

1. Kalnozols Ģirts Comparison and Selection of Tractor Aggregated Trailers for Transportation of Timber.

Very good (8)

2. Ozols Armands (nekl.) Constructive Solution of Drying Agent Generators for Dryers SZSB-4

with honours (10)

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and SZSB-8.*3. Paeglis Māris Jelgava Region Tractor Fleet

Development Tendencies.good (7)

)* - diploma project(nekl.) – part–time students

The state examination commission for assessment of Bachelor works and diploma project has been confirmed by the LUA Rector regulations No 03-2 (Chairperson) No 03-3 (commission members) on 05.03.2001.

State Examination Commission Comments

Bachelor works have been elaborated at: Institute of Power Vehicles – 18, Institute of Agricultural Energetics – 12, Institute of Mechanics – 3, Institute of Agricultural Machinery – – 1. Diploma projects have been elaborated at: Institute of Power Vehicles – 4, Institute of Agricultural Energetics and Institute of Agricultural Machinery – 3 at each.

Positive changes. For the first time it was possible to defend the works without having A1 format technical drawing sheet, but in general it has not made the quality of work lower. A part of the works was prepared using computers for development of schemes and technical drawings, they were properly designed. In general, the assessment grades are higher then the previous year. The selected themes are topical.

Disadvantages. In a part of the works conclusions are not precise enough and their authors cannot substantiate the application possibilities of the work. Some works did not reveal the engineertechnical training of the author, pretenders to the Bachelor degree had confined themselves to collection and summarising of statistic data.

Proposals. During the study year to specify the methodical regulations of elaboration of the Bachelor work with engineertecnical calculation part being compulsory.

Appendix 1.7.

Estimated Costs of the Agricultural Engineering Science Academic and Professional Study Program

(Latvia Republic education classification codes 44529, 445231 and 45529, certified at the Ministry of Education and Science on December 24.1998. direction No 707)

1. Normative financing of the study program for full-time undergraduate studies.

- The normative financing is determined by:

F = n ×[(k1 × k2 × fb)+(transp.comp.)+(grant)]

36

but, financing for studies in 1999

F = n ×[(k1(2000) × k2 × fb)+(transp.comp.)+(grant)]

where : n – planned number of students; k1 – coefficient of study program cost, engineering science

– 2,9 k1(2000) – coefficient of study program cost, engineering science in

2000 – 1,659 k2 – coefficient of study cost – Bachelors, specialists

– 1,00 fb – Ls 416,63 (basic financing part excluding transport

compensation and grants)

(k1, k12000) , k2 and basic financing is determined by the LR Cabinet of Ministers Regulations No 42 on February 9, 1999).

- The limit of students for the study year is as follows (according to the Senate decision No 3-7 on February 9, 2000 for 2000/2001) :

a) state financed: in the 1st year – 100; 2nd year – 90; 3rd year – 50; 4th

year – 45;total – 285 students;

b) paying tuition fee: 1st year - 25; 2nd year - 10; 3rd year - 15; 4th year – 4;

total – 54 students.

Full-time total n = 285 + 54 = 339 students.

- Financing calculation.

Study program financing for the year of 2000

F = 339 × [(416,63 × 1,659 × 1,0) + 146,20 + 17,5)] = Ls 289807,43

Necessary normative financing

F = 339 × [(416,63 × 2,9 × 1,0) + 146,20 + 17,5)] = Ls 465083,25

- Sources of financing:

State budget Ls 300390,00 (285 × 1054,00) Partly tuition fee Ls 16200,00 ( 54 × 300,00)Total Ls 316590,00

where 1054,00 – yearly financing for one student at the LUA

300,00 – tuition fee.

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- Distribution of the study program costs.

Maintenance and study process insurance cost (60%) - Ls 189954,00Salaries for teachers (40%) - Ls 126636,00

- Labour consumption for implementation of the study program.

The number of teacher positions: - according to centralised planning normative 42,38 (339 : 8) (the

Senate decision on March 12, 1997);- according to the CM regulations No 42 on March 9, 1999 ;

a) optimal - 65,5 (339:15×2,9).b) for the year of 2000 - 37,5 (339 : 15 × 1,659)

- Total volume of studies implementing the study program, in student credit points (SCP);

∑ SCP = 40 SCP in the study year × 339 = 13560 SKP

2. Normative financing of the study program for part-time undergraduate studies.

- The normative financing for part-time studies is determined by:

F = n × k1 × k2n × fb

But financing for studies in 2000

F = n ×k(2000) × k2n × fbn

where, k2n – 0.1 (coefficient of part-time study costs),fbn – Ls 580,13 (full basic financing).

- Planned number of students:

In the 1st year – 117; 2nd year – 71; 3rd year – 39; 4th year – 18; 5th year – 6 - total – 251 students.

- Financing calculation.

Study program financing for the year of 2000

38

F = 251 × 1,659 × 0,1 × 580,13 = Ls 25157,14.

Necessary normative financing

F = 251 × 2,9 × 0,1 × 580,13 = Ls 42227,66.

- Sources of financing:

State budget not providedPartly tuition fee Ls 40160,00 (251 × 160,00)

(160,00 – the fee determined for 2000/2001)

- Distribution of the study program costs:

Maintenance and study process insurance cost (60%) - Ls 24096.Salaries for teachers (40%) - Ls 16064.

- Labour consumption for implementation of the study program.

The number of teacher positions: - according to centralised planning normative 6,28 (251:40) (the

Senate decision on March 12, 1997);- according to the CM regulations No 42 on March 9, 1999 ;

a) optimal - 4,85 (251:15×2,9×0,1).b) for the year of 2000 - 2,8 (251:15×1,659×0,1)

- Total volume of studies implementing the study program, in student credit points (SCP);

∑ SCP = 40 SCP in the study year × 251 = 10040 SKP

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Part 2

Professional Study program in Agricultural Engineering

2.1. The aim and tasks of the program

The aim: to train qualified, creative and competent specialists in the sphere of agricultural sciences who can:

- Successfully work in engineering technical posts related to the fields of agricultural machinery, auto transport or food engineering;

- Continue self–education.

The tasks: To understand and acquire nature and society development correlations, basics

of management psychology and management skills through general education disciplines (applied psychology, ethics, aesthetics, sociology, philosophy, theory of economics, principles of rights, informatics, ecology, human protection, entrepreneurship, accountancy, principles of management, basics of engineering work);

To acquire the structure and principles of operation of machines, mechanisms, and energetic devices, technologies of their operation processes and solution of related engineering tasks through engineering science fundamental disciplines (mathematics, physics, chemistry, heat engineering, electrical engineering, hydraulics, electronics, machine dynamics, material resistance, mechanics, material science, descriptive geometry, engineergraphics etc.);

Through special disciplines to acquire the principles of agricultural technological processes, up–dated mechanized technologies, machinery applied in their implementation, basic principles of machinery formation and design, efficient usage and service of machinery, renovation of operational abilities of machines and technological equipment.

Expected results:- State institutions and private structures dealing with agricultural machinery, energetics,

auto transport, food production are supplied with professionally and technically educated specialists who are competent in items related to the chosen spheres and can fit in well in Latvian and international circulation;

40

- The acquired education ensures pre-requisites for successful cooperation with foreign partners;

- The obtained education ensures competitiveness in the local and international market on an appropriate level.

2.2. Qualification obtained

After acquisition of the study program, elaboration and successful defence of the diploma work the graduates obtain qualification of an engineer.

2.3. Further education possibilities for graduates

After graduation from the professional studies with additional acquisition of the theoretical course in the volume of 11 CP and elaboration of research work in the volume of 3 CP that ensures meeting the standard demands of Engineering Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering the graduate has the rights to continue studies at the Master Degree course in agricultural engineering science, other engineering science Master Degree programs at Latvian or other state higher educational establishments or other Master Degree study programs the entrance regulations of which allow for it.

2.4. Syllabus

The study program is of a professional education character having elements of academic education. The total volume of the study program (Appendix 2.1) is 171.5 CP*, incl. the theoretical course 155.5 CP. The compulsory disciplines have 134 CP comprising 86% of the theoretical course volume. The compulsory elective part offers 18 subjects in the volume of 47.5 CP, students must choose 17.5 CP (11%). 4 CP (3%) are allowed for free elective disciplines.

In the study program humanitarian subjects comprise 15 CP (10 %), social subjects – 9 CP (6 %), nature and technical subjects – 127.5 CP (82 %). Together with the elective subjects the special subjects ensure acquisition of academic and professional knowledge and skills and ensure the possibility of specialization. In special subjects students elaborate course papers and projects promoting acquisition of skills in problem solving and independent studies. Deeper specialization is achieved during development of the diploma work (3 CP).

Teaching practice and production practice comprise 5 CP (3 %) each in the study plan.

* 1 credit point (CP) corresponds to 1 week of studies.

2.5. Comparison to European state study programs

Professional study program in Agricultural Engineering is compared to analogous study programs of several European universities (Estonian, Lithuanian and Norwegian Agricultural Universities, Cranfield University Silsoe College (Great Britain), Linkoping University (Sweden), Braunshweig Technical University and Hohenheim University (Germany). According to the contents Great Britain, Norwegian, Lithuanian and Estonian higher school analogous study programs are most similar to the Agricultural Engineering study program. At German

41

universities (also in Finland and some other countries) agricultural engineering is usually only a part of the machine building program at technical universities except Hohenheim University the agricultural machinery program of which is closer to agricultural engineering study programs found in Great Britain and USA. The main subject CP in all programs can be mutually compared. Experience of several teachers acquired during visits to these higher schools made it possible to compare not only theoretically but also on the spot.

All analysed study programs have similar program development methods, organization of the study process in lectures, seminars, practical and laboratory sessions, individual and group work, in elaboration of course papers and projects as well as in oral, written and accumulating examinations. All universities have teacher and student exchange programs to improve qualification; there are possibilities of specialization.

The most essential difference in EU universities is the fact that at Universities students mostly obtain Bachelor and Master Degrees. Bachelor study programs last mainly for 3–3.5 years with the total number of credit points 120–140. In study programs of the universities compared usually there are not such subjects as sports, foreign languages and humanitarian subjects included. Relations of the Faculty of Engineering students and teachers are more formal, conveying of information and assessment of knowledge are more stressed, and teacher and student teamwork is paid less attention to. At the LUA there are comparatively less possibilities to use up–dated information technologies in the process of studies – 53 % of the FE students are satisfied with the possibilities to acquire computer skills but 47 % of them are not satisfied.

Comparing to the EU university study programs the weaknesses of the FE study program are: a large number of disciplines with relatively small amount of each hindering the formation of the subject links; the system of courses does not allow to organize a flexible study process; students have less competence in foreign languages, thus limited possibilities to gather information; as well as insufficient materially technical resources (39 % of students acknowledge it to be insufficient) and teaching literature.

The advantages of our study program are as follows – working in more difficult material conditions with insufficient number of personal computers students acquire manual technical drawing so developing spatial thinking.

Proposals: to increase the active proportion of independent work in the process of studies (in academic year 2000/2001 the Latvia University of Agriculture (LUA) passed over to 16 classroom lessons per week instead of 24 lessons previously); to introduce the subject system in planning of sessions; to develop the system of elective subjects. At the same time it can be considered that the present study programs are in compliance with the Latvian secondary and higher education system, information system and science statement level, nevertheless development of the study programs should be continued.

2.6. Perspective evaluation of the study program

Perspective development possibilities and the development model were elaborated and discussed at the strategic planning seminar with participation of teachers of the faculty, employers, students and Master degree students. The professional study program was introduced in the academic year 2000/2001.

Two academic groups are completed in the Agricultural Engineering professional undergraduate program. Formerly all 100 enrolled students were studying in the academic study program. Considering the large elimination of students a professional study program was introduced for a part of students. In the average 60–70 % of students graduate from the faculty, so such number of students in the program complies with the state interests. It is envisaged that the knowledge of youngsters in foreign languages and availability of computers at secondary

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schools will improve, so in the future it will be possible to exclude foreign languages and principles of informatics from the list of compulsory subjects. A specific feature of the professional study program is the ability of students to study independently. On September 1, 2000 the LUA reduced the number of classroom lessons (from 24 to 16 h per week) increasing the proportion of independent work of students with the purpose to make studies closer to the work of the departments/institutes and to establish a closer link between students and teachers. Considering the experience of the first year a decision was taken still to make it possible to return to 24-hour classroom lessons in the basic subjects according to the opinion of the faculties.

Gradually also the materially technical basis of the study program improves: laboratory equipment, availability of computers. Cooperation with different companies is used to obtain visual aids. Several necessary computer programs are obtained and the number of them is being increased in the limits of possibility. In 2001 all computers of the faculty will be compatible. The students have a sufficiently wide possibility to use information in the field of Agricultural Engineering available in the world.

More attention in the process of studies will be paid to up–dated production, design and information technologies and the leading companies of the state in the appropriate field will join the process of training.

More and more wider international relations between the teachers and foreign universities and scientific institutions are developing, cooperation and student exchange contracts are signed that helps the students of the Agricultural engineering science academic study program acquire experience in foreign countries and additionally study abroad.

2.7. Organisation of studies and assessment of knowledge

The curriculum ensures a subordinated system of acquisition of subjects with information acquired in the subjects taught before being the basis for acquisition of every new subject. Such planning of subjects ensures logically consistent acquisition of knowledge.

Many teaching disciplines include teaching excursions to production sites, companies and exhibitions, also laboratory and practical work at enterprises. The aim of it is to enlarge the outlook of the students and to extend their knowledge.

Organization of the study process is based on centralized planning of lectures, laboratory and practical work.

Regular assessment of student independent work is carried out at laboratory and practical work, assessment of understanding of themes at seminars and tests, elaboration and defence of course papers and projects, test or examination closing the subject, defence of teaching practice accounts. The knowledge is assessed according to 10-grade system in compliance with the criteria confirmed by the LUA Senate.

The studies are arranged according to the course system. Students are moved to the next year after acquisition of the previous year study plan. At present this system is suitable but as the possibilities for students to study and have practice abroad become wider the system should be made more flexible giving students a possibility to plan the length and regime of their studies. For this purpose a special work team is established at the LUA Senate.

2.8. Information on the academic staff

37 teachers are included in the study program who conscientiously carry out teaching methodical and scientific work. They include 12% professors, 18% associate professors, 27%

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docents, 38% lecturers and 5% assistants. It means that more than a half of the teachers (57%) are docents and professors.

Distribution of the study program teachers according to the scientific degrees is as follows: Habilitated Doctors – 15%, Doctors – 50%. 29% of the teachers have the Master academic degree, 6 % of the teachers without scientific and academic degrees are included in teaching.

Among the FE teachers participating in implementation of the Agricultural Engineering professional undergraduate study program there is one Habilitated Doctor who is a corresponding member of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, 8 professors and docents are members of the Latvian Academy of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, the Dean of the faculty K.Vārtukapteinis has been the President of the Latvian Association of Agricultural Engineers since it was established in 1995.

73 % of the teachers have visited various Western universities to improve their qualification.

2.9. Insurance and management of studies

The centre of Agricultural Engineering studies is the Faculty of Engineering. The most part of acquisition of the study program special, elective subjects and partly also academic subjects is carried out here. Sessions in some subjects take place also in other faculties of the LUA. Since January 1, 1998 Ulbroka Scientific Centre – former Latvian State Agricultural Mechanization and Energetics Scientific Research Institute has been included in the faculty structure. The scientists of the centre participate in insurance of the study process and at times several visiting sessions take place in Ulbroka. The study process is ensured by quite well – equipped classrooms and laboratories.

For training of Agricultural Engineering and other program and faculty students classrooms of the faculty are equipped with overhead projectors, video materials are used in the process of studies. FE computer class with 12 computers is used in the process of training. Nevertheless, it meets practically only the needs for acquisition of informatics and modelling elective course, it is topical to have at least another computer class for acquisition of computer graphics and related subjects as well as for preparation of course projects and diploma work. A computer class of the Institute of Agricultural Energetics with six computers given as a present by VAS Latvenergo in the frame of cooperation and a computer class of the Institute of Education and Home Economics with five computers are available to the students.

Acquisition of special and engineering technical subjects takes place in the FE laboratories the equipment of which is being improved within the limits of

possibility.The teaching literature necessary for acquisition of the subjects included in the study

program is available at the LUA library. Availability of literature can be considered to be satisfactory although there is a lack of textbooks on several subjects in Latvian. Therefore, the teachers of the faculty are working to prepare and publish abstracts of lectures. Within the limits of possibility the latest text books published abroad are being purchased. Besides, it is possible to read literature at the library electronically.

The order of announcement and evaluation of the study disciplines is determined by several normative documents confirmed by the LUA Academic Council. The subject program elaborated by the leading teacher of the subject is discussed at the Institute/Department meeting, after that it is externally expertised, then coordinated with the program manager and the dean.

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The principles of study program development are determined by regulations confirmed by the LUA Senate on 12.03.1997. Study programs are developed by work teams under supervision of the manager of the study program, accepted by the commission of program managers, discussed at the Faculty Managing Board and confirmed at the LUA Senate. Students are also included in the Managing Board and Senate. The syllabus of the program is analysed by the program manager preventing the possible repetition of themes or including a missing theme in the program. Such practice ensures versatile evaluation of the study program.

2.10. Creative and research work

Scientific work of the students is guided by the teachers of the faculty institutes. They offer themes related to their scientific work and students choose those they are interested in. Theses of the best scientific works of the LUA students are published every year in a special publication. The Bachelor work is an analytical, technological or practical solution of a problem in a branch of engineering science corresponding to the studies.

The scope of the research work is wide. The diploma works dwell on items related to evaluation of different agricultural production technological processes and their technological insurance, usage and service of autotransport, agricultural technical and technological service, different problems in energetics, usage of alternative kinds of energy in different spheres of economy, application of alternative fuels in power vehicles, efficient usage and service of machinery in different fields not related to agriculture. Scientific advisers of the themes follow the solution of these problems in Latvia and abroad, so the analysis of the theme is up–dated and topical.

It should be noted that the students’ interest in research work is not sufficiently active, one of the reasons for that is insufficient activity of the teachers to involve students in it.

2.11. Quality insurance system

6 faculties of the LUA, 2 Institutes, the library are involved in implementation of the Agricultural Engineering study program. The Academic Council of the LUA carries out methodical work of the studies, its organisation is ensured by the Department of Studies. Study plans of all faculties are at its disposal, analysis and coordination of them is carried out regularly to ensure efficient process of studies.

During the studies students are offered to take part in evaluation of the study programs. Anonymous inquiries are organized in the syllabus and quality of teaching. Four representatives of the student self-government are working at the faculty Managing Board participating in taking decisions on items related to implementation of the process of studies.

During the teaching practice and excursions students get acquainted with the work of the leading firms and enterprises of different profile, students meet the best and most experienced specialists of different branches. During the process of studies lectures and seminars are organized with participation of specialists from the Ministry of Agriculture and other ministries and from different production, service and machinery dealer enterprises.

Students can additionally learn foreign languages at the Department of Languages in non-free courses (English, German, French, Swedish). Students can go in for different kinds of sports at the Sports centre in payment groups additionally to the planned sessions. Students can take also part in different amateur groups: choirs, dancing and drama groups, and brass band.

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2.12. Summary

Agricultural Engineering professional study program complies with the requirements and aims stated. It can ensure acquisition of basic knowledge in engineering and basics in the branch of agriculture. The professional study disciplines include fundamental, humanitarian, economic and special study subjects and related course papers and projects as well as the elective discipline block. The students can specialise in a narrower branch they are interested in through compulsory and free elective disciplines as well as during development of the diploma project. Students are centred to self-education; if they wish to continue studies in the Master degree course after graduation from the professional studies they need to acquire the academic study disciplines corresponding to the Bachelor standard in the volume of 11 CP not included in this program and elaborate a research work in the volume of 3 CP.

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Part 3

Graduate study program in Agricultural Engineering

3.1. The aim and tasks of graduate studiesThe aim of the graduate studies in Agricultural Engineering at the LUA Faculty of

Engineering is to train highly educated young scientists, educators, businessmen, government and municipality work specialists who are able to take independent decisions and promote further development of agriculture in Latvia.

The task of the academic graduate studies is to ensure the possibility for graduate students to acquire extensive theoretical knowledge in the chosen branch of engineering sciences and to train skills in pedagogical and research work. Graduate studies in Agricultural Engineering at the FE envisage specialization in a branch of engineering sciences indicated in subprograms of the study plan:

agricultural machinery with branches of studies: plant breeding product production technologies and machinery; mechanization of animal husbandry; technical and technological service; machine design and production;

agricultural energetic; autotransport; food engineering; material science.Every branch of studies includes a part of elective disciplines to have specialization in a

narrower sphere.Theoretical studies (lectures and individual work), development of practical skills (laboratory

work, seminars, practical work), pedagogical activities (running of sessions) and research work envisaged by the study program ensure:

possibility to obtain the academic Master degree in engineering sciences (Mag.sc.ing.); possibility to extend humanitarian and general education knowledge, to acquire the methodology of research more profoundly; to acquire skills to work with scientific literature, state scientific problems, analyse versions of their solutions and draw conclusions; to acquire a skill to calculate engineering constructions and design simple devices and equipment using up-dated technology; to acquire basic knowledge necessary for development of the economic substantiation for engineering calculations and management of production work; to acquire skills necessary for independent research and organization of studies; to acquire basic skills for pedagogical and scientific work, clerk and leading specialist work at institutions and government institutions, companies and studies in the post–graduate course.

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Generally the set tasks are achieved successfully, it is proved by the work of the graduates. The graduates are working at the faculty, companies or continue their studies in the post – graduate course.

3.2. Perspective characteristics of the study program

At the Faculty of Engineering it is possible to acquire academic education in engineering sciences linking the process of studies with peculiarities of agricultural production and technology. The graduate course is the second level of academic studies following after the academic (Bachelor) degree in engineering sciences is obtained. After the academic course is acquired, the Master degree work is elaborated and defended the graduate students are awarded the Master degree in engineering sciences. A student having the Master degree has the rights to study at the post-graduate course both in Latvia and at universities abroad.

Latvia is an agricultural country. Therefore, further development of agricultural mechanization requires highly educated specialists who are able to develop engineering science and education through application of the most up-dated agricultural production technologies. In Latvia the necessity for highly qualified specialists in agriculture is great. Training of Master students abroad would be considerably more expensive and the graduates would not be competent enough in understanding of the specific conditions in Latvia, peculiarities of agricultural production and technologies. Latvia has its own scientific potential, as well as considerable experience in agricultural mechanization and formation of rural environment, still up-dating of the production material base should be continued. It is important to maintain the succession of scientific specialists and teachers through development of research work and study programs at the faculty.

The graduate course program in engineering science is developed using the current experience of Latvia engineering science and engineering graduate course program development principles of overseas agricultural and other universities as well as considering the need for highly qualified specialists in engineering sciences in Latvia economics.

The graduate course program is developed in the way for the graduate students to deepen the academic education and to carry out scientific research in compliance with the theoretical and experimental level of today's scientific requirements.

If compared to undergraduate studies the graduate course is more specialized, a larger number of elective disciplines is offered and the proportion of independent work is larger. Graduate studies are carried out according to the study program confirmed at the LUA Senate and the study plan for every study program (Appendix 3.1). The total volume of graduate studies is determined by the Regulation on Awarding the Master Degree at the LUA (confirmed at the LUA Senate on 14.02.2001, decision No 3 - 65, former wording – 08.01.1992), that is 80 CP and it includes: Graduate course with total 55-60 CP, 40–50 CP of which – theoretical course and 5–15 CP – research practice. 20–25 CP are envisaged for development and defence of the Master degree work. Humanitarians and general education subjects are equally compulsory to graduate students of all branches of studies. Narrower specialization is achieved choosing a part of the humanitarian course, general course of the program and special course disciplines of subprograms. It is possible to study full-time, part-time and external. External studies are regulated by the LUA Senate decision On External studies at LUA on 08.04.1998. The duration of full-time graduate studies is 2 years, part-time up to 4 year.

3.3. Information on possibilities in graduate studiesPersons having the higher education Bachelor degree in the chosen branch of studies or a

related branch as well as persons having higher professional education with the rights to study at

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the Master degree course and having graduated from a higher educational establishment till 1992 can study at the Master degree course in engineering sciences at the LUA Faculty of Engineering. Applicants for the Master degree course take an exam in a foreign language. Students are enrolled by a competition, the average grades in studies and in the entrance exam in the foreign language are considered.

The procedure of enrolment at the LUA Master degree course, organization of studies and obtaining of the Master degree are determined by:1. Regulation on Studies at the Latvia University of Agriculture, confirmed by the LLU Senate

meeting decision No. 4–24 on 09.05.2001;2. Regulation on Obtaining and Awarding of the Master Degree at the Latvia University of

Agriculture, confirmed by the LUA Senate meeting decision No. 3–65 on 14.02.2001;3. Graduate Studies at the Latvia University of Agriculture (comp. by H.Tuherms. – Jelgava:

LLU, 1995. – 43 p.);4. Enrolment Regulations in Graduate Studies in 2001, confirmed at the LUA Senate meeting on

11.10.2000;5. Regulations Master Degree Work in Engineering Sciences at the Faculty of Engineering. –

Jelgava: LLU, 1996. – 3 p., confirmed at the Academic Board meeting of the Faculty of Engineering on 20.11.1996.

In relation to the study program the graduate students express the opinion that they would like to hear guest lecturers in the sphere of up-dated mechanization of agricultural production. They are satisfied with having potential possibilities to improve qualification abroad, but they say that the latest literature is not available enough, especially in the state language. This drawback can be eliminated using widely available modern technical literature in different foreign languages in libraries. Graduate students wish to have more copies of lecture materials, visual aids and to use computers more widely. It is necessary to have latest literature on the special course themes and possibilities to use Internet for collection of the latest information, nevertheless, such a possibility exists at the faculty.

3.4. Characterisation of the academic staff

Highly qualified scientific and pedagogical staff is involved in training of engineering science specialists at the LUA Faculty of Engineering. It creates well-founded prerequisites for qualitative implementation of the graduate course program. Actually, only professors and assistant professors participate in implementation of the graduate course program. The structure of the faculty academic staff is shown in Tables 3.1 and 3.2.

Table 3.1. Structure of the academic staff (on 01.06.2001)

Positions Number %Supervised

elaboration of Master degree works

%

Professors 9 16,4 18 46,2Associate professors 7 12,7 3 7,7Docents 26 47,3 16 41,0Lectures 10 18,2 2 5,1Assistants 3 5,4 - -

Kopā: 55 100 39 100

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Table 3.2. Scientific qualification of the academic staff (on 01.06.01.)Scientific and academic degrees Number %

Habilitated Doctors 5 9,1Doctors 34 61,8Masters 10 18,2Without a degree 6 10,9

Total: 55 100

Scientific investigations carried out by the program managers and scientific advisers form the base for development and functioning of the graduate course program in engineering sciences. The scientific advisers carry out scientific research topical for engineering science in Latvia involving in them also the graduate students. The main trends of research of professors, associate professors and docents are:

research in and optimisation of applied machinery and technologies in soil cultivation, sowing cultivation, harvesting, primary processing of grain etc.;

research in energy supply and automation of agricultural production processes; alternative energetics and environment protection; heat processes in agricultural production; solution of transportation problems; problems related to food production; development of agricultural production organization forms etc.Teachers widely participate with reports at European and world scale conferences and

seminars as well as at international conferences organized by Latvian and Baltic State universities. The lists of scientific works are given in appendices of self-assessment reports.

3.5. The number and quality of Master degree works

The first graduate students at the Faculty of Engineering in the engineering science study program were enrolled in 1992. During the period from 1994 to 2001 in five engineering science Master degree examination commissions (MEC) at the Faculty of Engineering 51 graduate students have defended the Master degree work, incl. 28 graduate students who have graduated from the Master degree course (Appendix 3.2 and 3.3). The graduate students have to work during the studies to earn the living for themselves and their families. Often it is difficult to join work with studies and they cannot complete their studies. Another reason for unsuccessful graduate studies is the short time allowed for carrying out experimental research. It applies especially to those students who do not continue the research started in undergraduate studies.

Requirements for the contents and arrangement of the Master degree work at the faculty are exactly formulated as well as the order how to submit and defend the work is described in detail. The requirements are similar to those for development of any other research work. At first graduate students study literature on the chosen theme, carry out experiments according to the methods elaborated beforehand. After summarizing and analysis the obtained results are theoretically generalized and the work is drawn up. In order to successfully meet the requirements in the course of studies master degree students plan their work for 2 study years (in part-time studies up to 4 years):

the aim and the task of the work are formulated, study plan is developed and experimental methods are chosen;

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the work is organized to carry out the planned experiments successfully, regular contact with the scientific adviser is held and the student reports at the meeting of the academic staff of the institute.

Every Master degree work submitted for defence is in compliance with: regulations confirmed by the Academic Board of the Faculty of Engineering; decisions of the LLU Senate on graduate studies.The quality and scientific significance of the Master degree works become higher year by

year. The computer graphic design of the works becomes better, description of literature becomes deeper and richer, and the experimental part becomes larger. Many Master degree students before defending their work have participated at scientific–practical conferences with reports on the investigated items, they have publications in scientific issues.

Some drawbacks can be found in Master degree works, for example, references to the used literature are not precise; incompleteness in the selection of methods; formulation of conclusions is too general. Nevertheless, these reproofs usually are not essential and they do not influence the significance of the work.

Development of Master degree works has been advised by Dr.habil.sc.ing., Dr.sc.ing. and some experienced Masters in engineering sciences. A part of graduate students have elaborated their works without the help of advisers (Table 3.3). The most number of Master degree works was defended in 1997 (Table 3.4).

Table 3.3. Scientific advisers of Master degree works

Subprogram

Scientific advisers (Number)

Dr.habil.sc.ing. Dr.sc.ing. Mag.sc.

ing.Without adviser

Total

Agricultural machinery 3 18 2 12 35Agricultural energetics 6 2 1 9Autotransport 3 1 4Material science 1 1Food engineering 2 2

Total: 14 22 3 12 51

Table 3.4. The number of defended Master degree works by years

Year1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 Total

Number of defended works 2 2 12 22 1 6 4 2 51

3.6. Criteria, forms and procedure of assessment

Graduate study program include not only the themes of lectures, practical and laboratory work but also the forms and procedure of Master degree student knowledge assessment.

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The result of studies is assessed according to two indices: qualitative (10 grade system) and quantitative – credit points (CP).

The leading teacher in the corresponding discipline examines graduate students in disciplines of the general education course and general subjects of subprograms. The institute in which the graduate student specialises develops the graduate study practice program and it is confirmed at a meeting of the institute academic staff. Ordinary assessment forms are written, oral, accumulating. The scientific advisor supervises experimental and analytical research.

We consider that the assessment criteria, forms and procedure are in compliance with those accepted at universities of other Baltic states, European and American countries.

3.7. Insurance of the study program

For all engineering science graduate course subjects corresponding programs are developed accepted in the LUA determined order.

The LUA library, literature available at institutes and teachers and Internet provide informative study material. Subject managers can order the latest special literature in Latvia at the LUA library. Possibilities of graduate students to use electronic sources of information for elaboration of their scientific works become wider year-by-year. Graduate students can make use of all materially technical, informative and intellectual potential available at the faculty structural units. Unfortunately, we must note that for successful elaboration of graduate student scientific work there is a lack of special machinery, equipment and laboratory equipment that sometimes forces to simplify the research programs. There is not a special budget for research work of graduate students though experiments in engineering sciences require high expenses. The level of the research work depends on the ability of the scientific adviser to join contracting work, Latvia Council of Science or EU financed programs. These possibilities are also limited by the amount of finances allotted for science and the means necessary for preparation to join the EU programs.

In most cases at the Faculty of Engineering laboratories and the necessary equipment for carrying out research work are available for students and graduate students. For example, at the laboratory of resistance of materials at the Institute of Mechanics there is equipment for measuring and automatic registration of deformation, temperature, moisture and other physical values by means of computers used by several undergraduate and graduate students in their research. Nevertheless, in some cases there is a lack of the equipment and modern measuring instruments necessary for research of graduate students, especially for elaboration of the experimental part. Poor science financing hinders purchasing of it. Computers are available to graduate students. Graduate students receive grants and student hotels are available to them.

3.8. International relations and improvement of graduate student qualification

Improvement and implementation of the graduate course programs in engineering science at the LUA Faculty of Engineering is carried out in co-operation with Technical and Agricultural universities of the Baltic and several European countries. This co-operation helps improve engineering science branches of studies, especially in agricultural machinery, improving the teacher qualification, increasing the amount of special literature, and ensuring practice. It helps graduate students broaden their professional outlook, develop foreign language skills, promotes acquisition of new information and strengthens contacts. Nevertheless, the faculty should be more active in including graduate students in international circulation. Graduate students make

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use of opportunity to have practice at enterprises and companies. This improves their professional knowledge, but helps only a little to elaborate their scientific work.

Improvement of teacher qualification is considered to be the most important investment in improvement of study program implementation quality. Teachers of graduate studies have had short-time training at European higher education establishments, in the Western countries – Bonn University, Christian Albert University in Kiel, Hohenheim University, Braunschweig Technical University, Cologne Vocational Higher School, Veienstfan Vocational Higher School (all in Germany), Norway Agricultural University, Cranfield University, Northern London University, Bishop Burton College (Great Britain), Swedish University of Agricultural sciences in Uppsala, Transport Research Institute in Lyncheping (Sweden), Czech and Slovakia Agricultural University etc. as well as in the Eastern countries – Lithuanian and Estonian Agricultural Universities, Byelorussian Agricultural Academy, Kharkov State Agricultural Technical University, All-Russian Agricultural Institute of Electrification etc. Teachers have participated also at conferences, symposiums and seminars on the world and European scale, for example, congresses of the International Association of Agricultural Engineers (CIGR), world conferences on education of engineers, international congresses and symposiums on bio energies etc.

3.9. Graduate course development conception

Engineering science graduate course program is developed based on:1. Academic engineering science study traditions at the Latvia University of Agriculture, Riga

Technical University and formerly at the University of Latvia and Latvian State University accepting the close link with environment and social sciences.

2. Agricultural engineering science graduate course programs abroad, close relation of engineering sciences and higher education to the state and municipality institutions.

3. Labour market requirements in Latvia. In the future studies in engineering sciences will be developed according to the following

conditions: together with wide profile academic studies at the LUA Faculty of Engineering to accept training of scientists and highly qualified specialists considering the needs of Latvian economics;

to develop study programs increasing the proportion of the special course and allowing more time for independent studies;

to make engineering science study programs closer to the study programs of the EU state universities considering the peculiarities of Latvia rural environment;

to extend co-operation with higher schools and scientific institutes in Latvia and abroad through active participation in international projects;

to promote international co-operation with universities of European countries in order to ensure exchange of graduate students, work of guest lecturers and co-operation in implementation of scientific research.

3.10. Graduate possibilities to get a job

Graduates have higher competitive abilities in the labour market than Bachelors or engineers who have graduated from the faculty. Jobs are offered both by local and foreign companies that are dealing with trade, usage and service of different kinds of equipment, devices, machines and machinery.

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The possible work places are agencies of agricultural machinery companies and plants, dealer agencies and technical service enterprises, agricultural technological service enterprises in pagasts, specialised individual and co-operative agro service enterprises. Knowledge on economics, entrepreneurship, marketing, accountancy, market analysis, advertising and other business – like agro service disciplines together with good foreign language and computer skills ensure the possibility for graduates to continue studies at the post-graduate course, to get a job in the sphere of agricultural business as well as in the sphere of government, municipality and international institutions, to work at scientific research institutions, schools and technical school, agricultural advisory service, to establish private enterprises and companies.

The most part of the Masters already have their regular work places. Development, defending of the Master degree work and obtaining the Master qualification is the result of their systematic and organised work in improving their knowledge.

3.11. Summary

The task of the graduate studies in the engineering science program at the Faculty of Engineering is to train specialists of academic level for scientific, pedagogical and practical work in Latvian national economy.

The aim of the graduate studies is to promote the succession of generations of scientists and the teaching staff at the Faculty of Engineering, to train scientists and specialists in formation of the theoretical understanding and scientific basis of agricultural engineering sciences and environment protection strategy for Latvia to be able to integrate successfully in the EU agricultural production policy. Studies at the graduate course are organised in compliance with the LUA Regulation on Graduate studies.

The leading scientists and teachers of the Faculty of Engineering are able to ensure qualified work of graduate students. Graduate study branches in engineering sciences comply with the Latvia classification of branches of science.

The awarded scientific degree: Master of Engineering sciences (Mag.sc.ing.).Evaluating the perspective of the study program we can draw a conclusion that the

necessary branches for scientific research are as follows: investigation and creation of qualitative and competitive agricultural production technologies, equipment, service and organisation of production considering the local peculiarities and economic efficiency;

economical utilisation of energy and environmental resources; further development of agricultural production strategy and technologies in relation to

development perspectives of the EU countries.At the Faculty of Engineering like at the whole of the LUA development of the work of

the graduate course is considerably hindered by limited financing. For promotion and extending of graduate studies in the future it is necessary to attract financing from companies and enterprises for carrying out the experimental part. State order for engineering science themes is necessary in Latvia, the number of investigations among the branches of science should be balanced and priority problems stated in the country should be solved enlarging the financing of the Latvian Scientific Council projects.

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Appendix 3.2List of Persons awarded the Master Degree in Engineering Sciences at the Faculty of Engineering

Nr. Name, surname Theme of the Master Degree work Subprogram Adviser Date

1 Aivars Knite Operation and Service of Autotransport and Agricultural Machinery

Agricultural Machinery

Dr.sc.ing., doc.J.Tupiņš 14.06.94

2 Dainis Berjoza Research in the Effect of Different Turning Mechanisms in Ground Power Vehicles Autotransport Dr.hab.sc.ing.,

prof. J.Pommers 22.06.94.

3 Zigurds Miķelsons Operation and Service of Autotransport Vehicles Agricultural Machinery Without adviser 07.07.95.

4 Aigars Šmelds Mechanisation of Berry Harvesting Agricultural Machinery

Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. E.Bērziņš 07.07.95.

5 Haralds Kurzemnieks Development and Evaluation of Animal Feed Agricultural Machinery

Dr.sc.ing., vad. pētn. E.Lāčgalvis 30.01.96.

6 Juris Bergs Research in Animal Farm Work Technology and Development of Technical Equipment


Dr.inž.vad.pētn.E.Matisāns 30.01.96.

7 Aldis Vidužs Research in Sapropel Production Mechanisation Agricultural Machinery

Dr.sc.ing., Ē.Kronbergs 20.02.96.

8 Ivars Spalviņš Research in Grain Mills and Vegetable Cutters used in Latvia

Agricultural Machinery Without adviser 20.02.96.

9 Ivars ĶikānsResearch in and Development of Agricultural Production Plant Mechanisation and Energy Supply Equipment


Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. A.Šķēle 05.03.96.

10 Henriks PutānsResearch in and Development of Equipment for Insurance of Optimal Temperature Regime in Sties of Unseparated Pigs



11 Jānis Dzelme Research in Plows Used in Latvia Agricultural Machinery Without adviser 02.04.96.

12 Ruta Balode Development and Evaluation of Soil Cultivation and Fertilizer Application Mechanisation Machinery


Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. A.Vilde 02.04.96.

13 Aleksandrs Puzanovs Possibilities of Agricultural Service Organisation in Latvia


Dr.sc.ing., doc.J.Tupiņš 14.05.96.

2

14 Dmitrijs Kmins Research in Chisel Plows and Chisel Cultivators used in Latvia


15 Aina Priekule Research in Mechanised Milking Technology and Equipment


16 Guntars Zemjānis Research in Watering Type Vacuum Pump Operation Parameters


Dr.sc.ing., doc. J.Priekulis 25.05.96.

17 Juris Morītis Organisation, Procedure and Evaluation of Agricultural Shows


Dr.sc.ing., doc.D.Viesturs 07.01.97.

18 Andris SoversResearch in the Results of the Sugar Beet Precise Drilling Machines SST–12V, Kleine, A 697, Becker, Ukraina Laboratory-Field Test


19 Vera Suržikova Adaptation of Manure Removal Machinery to Market Conditions


Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. G.Uzkliņģis 11.02.97.

20 Leonīds Kaķītis Economic Technologies of Agricultural Production on Private Farms


21 Edgars Vadonis Development of Agricultural Machinery Testing Methods


22 Ēvalds Veikšāns

Research in Application of Silage Production Roller Presses CLAAS, ROLLANT 46 ROTO CUT, ORKEL GP 1202, SIPMA Z-279/1 AND CLAAS ROLLANT 46 SILAGE in Latvia


23 Jānis Kronbergs Summary of Road Traffic Safety and Road Traffic Analysis and Methodical Work of Driver Instruction


24 Ainārs LāčgalvisDevelopment of Normative Acts Ensuring the Quality of Latvian Agricultural Machine Building Products and Evaluation of Sales


25 Aleksandrs Ponomarjovs Research in Energetic Characteristics of Plow and Mower Tractors. Methods and Measuring Devices


26 Staņislavs Kroičs Machinery Ring, Formation Conditions and Possibilities


Dr.sc.ing., doc. J.Tupiņš 10.06.97.

3

27 Jānis KlintsTechnical Supply and Organisation of Technical Service of the Machine Fleet in Jēkabpils Region Aknīste Pagast


Dr.sc.ing., doc. J.Tupiņš 10.06.97.

28 Uldis Janeks Research in Car Gearbox Gear Ratios Autotransport Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. J.Pommers 10.06.97.

29 Gints Mangulis Development of Diesel Engine Defection Algorithm Autotransport Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. J.Pommers 10.06.97.

30 Gints Burks Application of Automobile ZIL – 130 Engine in Co-generation Equipment Operating on Natural Gas Autotransport Dr.sc.ing., prof.

V.Gulbis 10.06.97.

31 Pēteris Slišāns Comparative Investigations in Utilisation of Materials for Tractor Operation


Dr.sc.ing., doc.G.Aizsils 11.06.97.

32 Armands Apsītis Structure of Trucks in Latvia and Possibilities to Rebuild Them with Diesel Engines


Mag.sc.ing., lecture A.Knite 11.06.97.

33 Raimonds Brokāns Milk Transport Analysis in Jelgava Region Agricultural Machinery

Dr.sc.ing., doc.M.Ķirsis 12.06.97.

34 Andris Grāvītis Regeneration of Tractor Machinery and State Technical Supervision in the Republic of Latvia


Dr.sc.ing., doc. G.Aizsils 12.06.97.

35 Aldis Jēkabsons Utilisation and Production of Gas Fuels Agricultural Energetics


36 Ivars Pelšs Utilisation and Production of Gas Fuels Agricultural Energetics


37 Didzis Rungulis Analysis and Optimisation of Sewage Water Transfer Processes

Agricultural Energetics

Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. A.Šnīders 16.06.97.

38 Uģis Skrastiņš Analysis and Optimisation of Sewage Water Aeration Processes



39 Eduards Reliņš Research in Food Production Improvement and Harvesting Technology Development Possibilities


Dr.sc.ing., doc. D.Viesturs 11.06.98.

40 Jānis Grims Research in Pine Wood Strength Material Science Dr.sc.ing., assoc. prof. V.Pušinskis 11.06.99.

41 Jānis Melbārdis Solution of Heating Problems at the Hotel Jelgava Agricultural Energetics

Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. A.Grundulis 15.06.99.

4

42 Oskars Bortkevičs Research in Induction Generator Control System in Alternative Energy Equipment


Dr.sc.ing., assoc. prof. A.Galiņš 15.06.99.

43 Intars Sproģis Research in Regulated Electro Drive Parameters of Circular Saws and Optimisation of Working Regimes



44 Jānis Plucis Diesel Engine Fuelling with Wood Gas via Small Co-generation Station


Dr.sc.ing., prof. V.Gulbis 15.06.99.

45 Aivars Škutāns Yoghurt Quality Control in Circulation of Goods Food Engineering Dr.hab.sc.ing.,prof. G.Moskvins 02.11.99.

46 Raivis Lūsis Technological Problems and Practice of Machine Design Food Engineering Dr.hab.sc.ing.,

prof. G.Uzkliņģis 10.06.2000.

47 Edmunds Visockis Analysis of Ways of Heating Buildings in the Conditions of Latvia


Mag.sc.ing., doc. R.Šeļegovskis 10.06.2000.

48 Kaspars Lieģenieks Analysis of Technical Condition of Automobiles in Periodical Inspections


Mag.sc.ing., lecturer A.Knite 12.06.2000.

49 Edgars Megnis Comparison and Selection of Fork Loaders Agricultural Machinery

Dr.sc.ing., doc.J.Tupiņš 12.06.2000.

50 Ilmārs Zaķis Evaluation of Plows Sold in Latvia and Straw-Cutter SSK-1200


Dr.sc.ing.P.Punculis 12.06.2001.

51 Armands Dobelis Reduction of Electro Energy Loss in Electric Nets Agricultural Energetic

Dr.sc.ing., assoc. prof.A.Galiņš 12.06.2001.

5

Appendix 3.3

Graduates of the Master Studies at the FE

Year of graduation Name, surname Subprogram

1994 Berjoza Dainis Autotransport1995 Šmelds Aigars Agricultural Machinery1996 Zemjānis Guntars Agricultural Machinery

1997

Apsītis Armands Agricultural MachineryBrokāns Raimonds Agricultural MachineryBurks Gints AutotransportGrāvītis Andris Agricultural MachineryJaneks Uldis AutotransportJēkabsons Aldis Agricultural EnergeticsKlints Jānis Agricultural MachineryKroičs Staņislavs Agricultural MachineryMangulis Gints AutotransportPelšs Ivars Agricultural EnergeticsRungulis Didzis Agricultural EnergeticsSkrastiņš Uģis Agricultural EnergeticsSlišāns P Agricultural Machinery

1998 Reliņš Eduards Agricultural Machinery

1999

Bortkevičs Oskars Agricultural EnergeticsGrims Jānis Material ScienceMelbārdis Jānis Agricultural EnergeticsPlucis Jānis Agricultural MachinerySproģis Intars Agricultural EnergeticsŠkutāns Aivars Food Engineering

2000

Lieģenieks Kaspars Agricultural MachineryLūsis Raivis Food EngineeringMegnis Edgars Agricultural MachineryVisockis Edmunds Agricultural Energetics

2001 Dobelis Armands Agricultural Energetics

2

Part 4.

Post-graduate study program in Agricultural Engineering

The post–graduate study program is developed in accordance with the LR law On scientific work considering the Higher Education Council (HEC) resolution No 62 (18.06.1999), recommendations of the Latvian Council of Science (LCS) and regulation No 134 of the LR Cabinet of Ministers (06.04.1999) on promotion procedure and criteria.

The study program is confirmed at the LUA Senate on 10.05.2000 (resolution No 3-29). Program manager Professor, Dr.habil.sc.ing. A. Šnīders.

4.1. The aim and tasks of post–graduate studies

The aim of the post–graduate studies is to promote the development of agricultural engineering science and to train international level high quality scientists in the sub branch of agricultural engineering sciences and to ensure renovation of the academic staff at the Faculty of Engineering.

The task of the post–graduate studies is for the post–graduate students to acquire the following skills:

a skill to solve scientific problems independently and competently; to be competent in methodology of research work; to acquire extensive knowledge in the chosen branch of science and to give individual

investment in its development; to become part of a wide scientific context on national and international scale with an

appropriate level of research work; to be able to work independently and to co–operate in development of joint scientific

projects; to acquire experience of pedagogical work and a skill to introduce the results of the

scientific work to the audience in our state and internationally; to elaborate a promotion work to obtain the Doctor scientific degree.

The scientific degree obtained – Doctor of engineering sciences (Dr. sc. ing.).The post–graduate study branches at the Faculty of Engineering in the sub branch of

Agricultural engineering science are as follows: agricultural energetics; agricultural machinery; auto transport.

The priority research trends include problems topical in Latvia and in the world:

3

development of environment–friendly crop breeding technologies to obtain quality products;

development of animal friendly feeding and handling systems; research in technological processes of agricultural product conditioning and storage; development of agricultural mechanization system in environment–friendly utilization of

renewable resources; research in efficiency of mobile energetic equipment application; technical investigations in energoresources and renewable sources of energy; research in problems of energoeconomy of technological processes and quality of

automatic control.

4.2. Duration and coverage of post–graduate studies

Duration of full–time studies is 3 years (48 weeks x 3 = 144 weeks), in part–time studies – 4 years (36 weeks x 4 = 144 weeks), view Appendices 4.3 and 4.4.

Full–time and part– time post–graduate studies cover 144 CP (1 CP/week x 144 week).

Credit points are distributed as follows: post–graduate study theoretical course – 44 CP; development of the Doctor work – 90 CP; drawing up of the thesis – 10 CP.

Theoretical course consists of the following parts: compulsory course – 18 CP; elective course – 6 CP; preparation of scientific publications in reviewed issues, reports at international

scientific conferences, exhibits at exhibitions, preparation of patent applications, Doctor level qualification courses – 20 CP.

4.3. Program implementation regulations and requirements

3.1. The program is a regulating document of post–graduate studies in agricultural engineering sub branch at the Faculty of Engineering determining the procedure, contents, methodical and scientific level and the final result of post–graduate studies.

3.2. Conditions and requirements formulated in the program are compulsory for the post–graduate students, their scientific advisers and academic staff of the Faculty of Engineering, LUA participating in implementation of the program.

3.3. Persons having the academic Master degree of engineering sciences in agricultural machinery, autotransport, energetics and related branches have the rights to take part at the competition for post–graduate studies at the Faculty of Engineering, LUA.

3.4. If the applicant for post–graduate studies has the Master degree in a related branch of engineering sciences not related to agricultural technology before taking part at the competition for post–graduate studies at the LUA he/she should get a pass in the graduate study disciplines that are not nostrificated with those included in the applicant's graduate study program.

4

3.5. The performance during the post–graduate studies should correspond to 144 credit points 100 CP of which are meant for development and drawing up of the dissertation, 44 CP should be obtained in the theoretical post–graduate study process.

3.6. A person who has completed a full post–graduate program and passed 3 promotion examinations: special course in a foreign language; general theoretical course in the branch of studies and special theoretical course in the branch of the promotion work can pretend to obtain the Doctor scientific degree in agricultural engineering sciences.

3.7. Promotion work can be elaborated and defended in the branches of agricultural machinery, auto transport and agricultural energetics. The general theoretical course program in the branch of studies with 5 CP is developed by a group of the leading professors in the speciality and confirmed by the Promotion council.

3.8. The special theoretical course program in the branch of promotion work with 5 CP is developed by a post–graduate student together with his/her scientific adviser and confirmed by the Promotion council.

3.9. The main results of the promotion work must be published (or handed in for publication) at least in five reviewed scientific issues included in the list of scientific publications affirmed by the Latvian Council of Science (LCS) or equal level issues accepted by the Promotion council.

3.10. The results of the promotion work must be presented at least at two international conferences.

3.11. The promotion work should be an internationally acknowledged completed investigation having a significant investment in further development of agricultural engineering science approbated in international publications and conferences.

3.12. The scientific advisers of promotion work can be habilitated doctors and doctors of engineering sciences carrying out investigations in the branch of agricultural engineering science and who have publications in Latvian and international scientific issues and who deliver reports at Latvian and international scientific conferences.

4.4. Content of studies

The content of studies is formed by the following main positions: theoretical studies at the LUA post–graduate course; elaboration of research work; presentation of the research work results; preparation and drawing up of the promotion work.

4.4.1. Theoretical studies at the LUA post–graduate course.The theoretical studies consist of the compulsory course – 18 CP and elective course – 6

CP (Appendix 4.1). Studies include lectures, sessions (computer sessions) and individual studies. In the compulsory course post–graduate students must pass three promotion examinations: special course in a foreign language, general theoretical course in the branch of studies and special theoretical course directly corresponding to the chosen theme of the promotion work.

In the compulsory course the post–graduate students must acquire the modern opinions and methods of mathematical modelling and computer–aided modelling of engineering – technical processes and methodology of theoretical and experimental research.

In the elective course the post–graduate students can acquire additional knowledge for formation of philosophical conceptions on the future vision and mission of the modern engineering science and methods of elaboration and drawing up of the promotion work.

More detailed contents of theoretical studies are shown in Appendix 4.1.

5

4.4.2. Characterization of the general theoretical course of study branches (Appendix 4.2)4.1.1. Agricultural energetics.

Part 1. Heat–power engineering.Part 2. Electric–power engineering.

4.1.2. Agricultural machinery.Part 1. Global positioning systems and technologies.Part 2. Computer control systems for technological processes.Part 3. Solid movement along labile plane.Part 4. Physical–mechanical properties of technological materials.

4.1.3. Autotransport.Part 1. Transport vehicles. Part 2. Transportation and logistics.Part 3. Technical operation of vehicles.

More detailed description of the general theoretical course is shown in Appendix 4.2.

4.4.3. Special theoretical course program in the branch of the promotion workThe post–graduate student consulting with the scientific adviser of the dissertation,

develops the special theoretical course program in the branch of the promotion work. The Promotion council affirms it individually for every post–graduate student.

The syllabus of the program should have evidence of the post–graduate student's high competence in theoretical and practical items on the chosen theme with wide references to sources of literature and investigations acknowledged in Latvia and abroad.

The whole range of problems related to implementation of the theoretical, experimental and statistical investigations of the dissertation and optimisation of the results should be described in detail in the program showing the application of mathematic and simulation modelling methods and processing technologies.

4.5. Comparison to post–graduate study programs of other European countries

Comparing the post–graduate study programs of the LUA and universities of the Northern countries the difference is that the length of post–graduate studies at these higher educational establishments is 4 years. This allows for a three-year research program, summarizing of the results and drawing up of the promotion work.

Considering the experience of the Northern countries we see that it would be necessary also in Latvia to have the state order for the themes in order to balance the number of investigations among the branches of science and to solve the priority problems of the country and to receive the Latvian Scientific council financing. Passing over to unified scientific degree system it would be advisable to introduce the so–called licensed degree as it is in Sweden and Finland. It would create a possibility to train higher qualified specialists cheaper and faster. At universities of the Northern countries there are no part–time post–graduate studies. Post–graduate students are working in departments together with their scientific advisers as their assistants. In Latvia post–graduate students usually work outside the university that hinders regular co-operation of the post–graduate student and scientific adviser and does not promote renovation of the professor staff at the LUA.

Limited financing hinders the work at the Faculty of Engineering. In the future it is necessary to find possibilities for carrying out the experimental part of the work with attraction

6

of financing from companies and enterprises. It is possible through signing contracts on fulfilment of definite work.

4.6. Quality insurance system in studies

1. Expertise of individual study plans and regular supervision according to the regulation on the LUA post–graduate studies confirmed on 08.11.2000.

2. Regular participation with reports at international scientific conferences.3. Publications in internationally reviewed issues.4. Participation at international post–graduate student courses and seminars (work–shops).

4.7. Supervision of the program plan implementation

In accordance with the regulation on the LUA post–graduate studies the results of the post–graduate student's work are discussed once a quarter at the academic meeting indicated by the manager of the post–graduate study program. A report on the work carried out during the definite period of time according to a from confirmed at the LUA Academic council and the institute account on the procedure of the post–graduate's progress in the study plan should be submitted at the Post–graduate study Department. Certification for further studies at the post–graduate course takes place at the end of every post–graduate's academic year at an enlarged institute session with the agricultural engineering science branch Promotion council representative being present.

4.8. Academic staff of the study program

Highly qualified study branch managers, scientific advisers of the post–graduate students, leading teachers of disciplines and examination commission members from the Faculty of Engineering and other LUA structural units participate in implementation of the post–graduate study program (Appendix 4.5).

4.9. Program implementation possibilities

Laboratory equipment of the FE is available for the post–graduate students of the LUA Faculty of Engineering to carry out research work. Computers and software of the institutes of the FE are also available for the post–graduate students for simulation modelling and optimisation of the processes investigated and for drawing up the promotion work.

For literature studies the LUA library, Riga Technical University library, Academic library and other libraries are available where post–graduate students can read the latest world literature – monographs, scientific journals and other publications in the branch of agricultural engineering science as well as use Internet.

Post–graduate students can make use of business trips to international conferences and overseas scientific and educational establishments to carry out research and improve the scientific qualification.

7

4.10. Study costs

According to the Regulation No 42 (09.02.1999) of the LR Cabinet of Ministers on the order how the state covers tuition fees for students of higher educational establishments study costs for one year of an engineering branch full-time post–graduate student can be calculated according to the following formula:

Id = [Is(a) –(Ss(a) + Itr + Isoc)] K1K2 + Sd + Itr + Isoc ,

where Is(a) – study cost value for one student (administrator), Ls (in 2000 at universities Is(a) = 580 Ls);

Ss(a) – yearly grant for the student (administrator), Ls (Ss(a) = 7.5 x 12 = 90 Ls);Itr – state subsidized transport expenses, Ls (in calculation it is presumed one month's

grant Itr = 7.5 Ls);Isoc – social subsidies Ls (in 2000 Isoc = 17.5 Ls);K1 – study cost coefficient for education subject branches (optimal value for engineering

science branch K1 = 2.9);K2 – study cost coefficient for post–graduate studies (for LUA post–graduate studies K2

= 4.0);Sd – post–graduate student's yearly grant. Ls (Sd = 58 x 12 = 696 Ls).

Inserting the quantity numerical values in the calculation formula we obtain the value of 6115 Ls that is the necessary cost for implementation of an engineering science branch post–graduate student's yearly study program.

4.11. Post–graduate student possibilities to participate in projects financed by the LCS and State programs

Post–graduate students of the FE are involved in implementation of LCS scientific and market orientated grants. It is possible to receive the LCS post–graduate student support grants in competitive order.

There is also a possibility to participate in State scale research programs, research projects financed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Latvenergo and other institutions.

4.12. Post–graduate study results

In the last stage of the post–graduate studies the post–graduate student draws up the promotion work and its summary in compliance with the LUA Proportion Council regulation (confirmed at the LUA Senate on 14.06.200, decision No 3-34) and defends it at the Promotion Council.

After the promotion work is successfully defended the post–graduate student obtains the Latvian Republic engineering science Doctor degree that is certified by a diploma issued at the LUA.

8

Appendix 4.1.

Disciplines and courses of agricultural engineering science post–graduate studies

Disciplines and courses Credit points (CP) Assessment Discipline and course managers

1. Compulsory disciplines and courses 18 CP

1.1. Special course in foreign languages 2 Promotion exam

Department of Languages, scientific

adviser1.2. Mathematical modelling

of static and dynamic processes

2 Test Dr.habil.sc.ing., prof. P.Rivža

1.3. Computer–aided modelling of dynamic processes (Simulink)

2 Test Dr.habil.sc.ing., prof. P.Rivža

1.4. General theoretical course in the branch of studies

5 Promotion exam Scientific adviser

1.5. Special theoretical course in the branch of promotion work

5 Promotion exam Scientific adviser

1.6. Methodology of scientific work 2 Test

2. Elective disciplines 6 CP2.1. Special course on

mathematical statistics (2) Test Dr.sc.ing., doc. I.Arhipova

2.2. Experimental data collection and processing computer–aided technology

(2) Test Dr.sc.ing., doc. A.Kaķītis

2.3. Modelling and optimisation of automatic control systems of technological processes

(2) Test Dr.habil.sc.ing., prof. A.Šnīders

2.4. Standards, patents, elaboration and drawing up of patents

(2) Test Dr.sc.ing., doc. Ē.Kronbergs

2.5. Artificial intellect and nanotechnology (2) Test Dr.habil.sc.ing., prof.

G.Moskvins

9

Appendix 4.2.

Characterization of the general theoretical course of the branch of studies

1. Agricultural energeticsPart 1. Heat–power engineering.1.1. Special course in theoretical thermodynamics. Static and dynamic heat transfer

processes.1.2. Modelling and optimisation of heat transfer processes.1.3. Heat supply sources and objects in agriculture.1.4. Individual and central heat supply systems.1.5. Alternative heat–power sources and equipment.Part 2. Electric–power engineering.2.1. Special course in theoretical electrical engineering. Statistic and dynamic processes in

electric circuits.2.2. Modelling and optimisation of electric power transmission.2.3. Electric–power supply equipment and objects in agriculture.2.4. Electro technology in agriculture.2.5. Alternative electro–power sources and equipment.

2. Agricultural machineryPart 1. Global positioning systems and technologies.Part 2. Computer control systems of technological processes.Part 3. Solid movement along oscillating plane.Part 4. Physical–mechanical properties of technological materials.

3. AutotransportPart 1. Transport vehicles.1.1. Construction and calculation of engines.1.2. Construction and calculation of ground power vehicles.1.3. Theory of engines.1.4. Theory of ground power vehicles (automobiles).Part 2. Transportation and logistics.2.1. Principles of selection of vehicles for definite loads and transportation conditions.2.2. Machine system "transport vehicle – loading – unloading machine or agricultural

machine" formation principles and conditions.2.3. Load transportation characteristics. Loading and load fastening regulations.2.4. Kinds of routes in load transportation. regulations of their application. Principles of

transport logistics.Part 3. Technical service of transport vehicles.3.1. Theoretical principles of technical service system.3.2. Technology of technical service.3.3. Technical automobile diagnostics.3.4. Principles of designing of transport enterprise materially–technical base.3.5. Organization and management of technical service.

10

Appendix 4.3.

Study program implementation plan in full–time studies

1. First study year

1.1. Theoretical studies: Special course in foreign languages 2 CP, promotion examination; Mathematical modelling of static and dynamic processes – 2 CP, test; Methodology of scientific work – 2 CP, test; Optional subjects – 6 CP, test.

1.2. Elaboration of the descriptive part of promotion work – 32 CP; Development of the conception of the investigated problem in engineering

science studies and research. Collection and analysis of scientific data; Preparation of methodical and material basis for experimental research; Preparation of methodical basis for theoretical research.

1.3. Publications and approbation: Preparation of a publication and presentation in the Proceedings of the LUA post

– graduate student conference – 1.5 CP; Preparation of 2 reports and presentation at scientific–practical conferences of the

LUA post – graduate students and teachers – 2 CP.

2. Second study year

2.1. Theoretical studies: General theoretical course in the branch of studies – 5 CP, promotion exam; Computer aided modelling of dynamic processes – 2 CP, test.

2.2. Elaboration of the theoretical and experimental part of promotion work – 34 CP.

2.3. Publications and approbation: Preparation of two publications and presentation in reviewed scientific issues – 5 CP; Preparation of a report and presentation at an international scientific conference – 2 CP.

3. Third study year

3.1. Theoretical studies: Special theoretical course in the branch of promotion work – 5 CP, promotion

examination.

3.2. Completion of promotion work: Completion of the theoretical and experimental part of the promotion work – 24 CP; Drawing up of the promotion work and its summary – 10 CP.

3.3. Publications and approbation Preparation of three publications and presentation in scientific issues – 7.5 CP; Preparation and presentation of a report at a scientific conference – 2 CP.

11

Appendix 4.4.

Study program implementation plan in part–time studies1. First study year.

1.1. Theoretical studies: Special course in foreign languages – 2 CP, promotion examination; Mathematical modelling of statistic and dynamic processes – 2 CP, test; Methodology of scientific work – 2 CP, test; Optional subject – 2 CP, test.

1.2. Elaboration of the descriptive part of the promotion work – 25 CP: Development of the conception of the investigated problem in engineering

science studies and research; Collection and analysis of scientific data; Preparation of methodical basis for theoretical research.

1.3. Publications and approbation: Preparation of a publication and presentation in the Proceedings of the LUA post–

graduate student conference – 1. CP; Preparation of a report and presentation at the LUA post–graduate student scientific–

practical conference – 1 CP.

2. Second study year.

2.1. Theoretical studies: Computer–aided modelling of dynamic processes – 2 CP, test; Optional subjects – 4 CP, test.

2.2. Further work at the descriptive part of the promotion work, elaboration of the theoretical and experimental part – 27 CP:

Preparation of methodical and material basis for experimental research; Collection and processing of experimental data.

2.3. Publications and approbation: Preparation of a publication and presentation in a reviewed scientific issue – 2.5 CP; Preparation and presentation of a report at the scientific–practical conference of the LLU

teachers – 1 CP.

3. Third study year.

3.1. Theoretical studies: General theoretical course in the branch of studies – 5 CP, promotion examination;

3.2. Further work at the theoretical and experimental part of the promotion work – 24 CP;3.3. Publications and approbation:

Preparation of two publication and presentation in reviewed scientific issues – 5 CP; Preparation of a report and presentation at an international conference – 2 CP.

4. Fourth study year.

4.1. Theoretical studies: Special theoretical course in the branch of promotion work – 5 CP, promotion

examination.4.2. Completion of the promotion work:

Completion of the theoretical and experimental part of promotion work – 14 CP; Drawing up of the promotion work and summary – 10 CP.

4.3. Publications and approbation:

12

Preparation of two publications and presentation in reviewed scientific issues – 5 CP; Preparation of a report and presentation at an international conference – 2 CP.

Appendix 4.5.

Academic staff of the post-graduate study program

Edvīns Bērziņš - Dr.habil.sc.ing., Prof., Member of LLMZA*, corresponding member of LCS**, Vice Rector in Science;

Uldis Iļjins - Dr.habil.sc.ing., Prof., Head of the Department of Physics;Ansis Grundulis - Dr.habil.sc.ing., Professor, Institute of Agricultural Energetics;Andris Šnīders - Dr.habil.sc.ing., Prof., Director of the Institute of Agricultural

Energetics;Genādijs Moskvins - Dr.habil.sc.ing., Prof., Institute of Agricultural Energetics,

Academician of Petersburg Academy of Science; Pēteris Rivža - Dr.habil.sc.ing., Prof., Dean of Faculty of Information Technologies,

Member of LLMZA;Guntars Uzkliņģis - Dr.habil.sc.ing., Prof., Director of the Institute of Mechanics;Vilnis Gulbis - Dr.ing., Professor, Institute of Power Vehicles;Māris Ķirsis - Dr.ing., Prof., Director of the Institute of Power Vehicles;Ainārs Galiņš - Dr.ing., Assoc. Professor, Institute of Agricultural Energetics;Kaspars Vārtukapteinis - Dr.ing., Prof., Dean of FE, Member of LLMZA, President of the

Latvian Society of Agricultural Engineers;Imants Ziemelis - Dr.ing., Assoc. Professor, Institute of Mechanics;Juris Priekulis - Dr.ing., Prof., Institute of Agricultural Machinery, Member of

LLMZA;Ēriks Kronbergs - Dr.ing., Assoc. Professor, Institute of Mechanics;Jānis Tupiņš - Dr.ing., docent, Institute of Power Vehicles;Aivars Kaķītis - Dr.ing., docent, Institute of Mechanics.

)* - Latvian Academy of Agricultural and Forest Sciences

)** - Latvian Academy of Science.

13

Appendix 4.6.

ENERGETICS

Post-graduate course in the branch of studies

Faculty of Engineering, Institute of Energetics

Annotation of the course:LENI 600 Energetics. Professor Andris Šnīders

5.0 CP. Promotion examCompulsory for post-graduate students in the branch of Agricultural Energetics2nd year for full-time studies, 3rd year for part-time studiesPost-graduate students work independently consulting the scientific advisor, using the subject program and literature.

Part 1. Heat-power engineering. Special course of theoretical thermodynamics. Stationary and dynamic heats transfer processes. Modelling and optimisation of heat transfer processes. Heating sources and objects in agriculture. Separate and central heating systems. Fuels and

their characteristics. Renewable (alternative) heating sources and units. Part 2. Electric-power engineering. Special course on electrical engineering. Stationary and dynamic processes in electric circuits. Modelling and optimisation of electric-power transmission. Equipment and objects of electric –power supply in agriculture. Electro technology in agriculture. Renewable (alternative) sources and equipment of electric power production.

The aim:To extend knowledge and experience through independent studies in the sphere of heat-

power engineering and electric-power engineering to be able to elaborate the Doctor degree work in engineering science, speciality of energetics in compliance with international requirements.

Inter–subject links:A pass in special subjects in energetics at Master degree studies of engineering sciences

in required.

Assessment of knowledge:The scientific adviser consults the student, manages the process of studies and assesses

the student's readiness for taking the promotion exam.

Promotion exam:The procedure of taking the promotion exam is determined by the LUA Doctor degree studies regulation.

14

Detailed program

1. Heat-power engineering.

1.1. Basic values and conceptions of thermodynamics, their interrelation.Basic laws of thermodynamics. Temperature field. Heat conductivity differential

equation for stationary and non-stationary processes.Heat transition processes in stationary and non-stationary regimes.Marginal conditions and selection of the initial condition. First, second, third and

fourth kind marginal conditions. Physical conditions for their application. Most popular mathematical physics problem solution methods and conditions of their application. Variable separation method, Laplas transformation, conform figure method. Numerical solution methods.

1.2. Physical and numerical modelling of heat – exchange processes.Input and output parameters. Heat–porter flows and heat-power balance. Flow character. Optimisation criteria. Modelling of final temperature, temperature distribution, optimal area of heat – exchange surface. Modelling of evaporation and condensation processes. Computer-aided modelling of heat – exchange processes. Optimisation of the problem input data. Microsoft Excel software possibilities. Modelling of non-stationary heat transmission processes using the software Simulink.

1.3. Hot water and steam production boilers, their classification, construction, parameters. Heat-exchange devices, their classification, construction, calculation. Heat consumers in agriculture. Measuring and registration of heat-power consumption. Individual boiler houses, their equipment and systems.Central heat supply systems, their classification. Heating mains their classification, construction. heating units. Consumer connection to the heating system.

1.4. Co-generation equipment.Co-generation principle and main types of equipment. Steam turbines, Diesel engines, gas Diesels and gas engines. Heat balance equation. Heat power, electric power and efficiency. Reconstruction of Diesel electro station in co-generation equipment. Heat take-off principles. Heat degas exchangers: water-water; oil-water and decontamination-water. Heat-power utilization for heating premises. Legal aspects of electric-power and heat-power utilization. Purchasing tariffs and their dependence on the co-generator electric power and the fuel used. Co-generation equipment economic efficiency and pay-off time.

1.5. Renewable energy resources.Solar collectors for hot water production. Application of heat pumps for production of heat. Usage of wood chips and other wood waste, straw, grease waste for production of heat. Usage of bio fuels (rape seed oil etc.) for production of heat.

1.5.1. Active solar heating systems. Collection of solar radiation. Absorption surfaces. Collectors for production of hot water, their types and construction. Capacity of collectors and reflection losses. Double contour systems for hot water production: with natural circulation; with forced circulation. Accumulation tanks or boilers. Application of solar collectors in the system of central heating. Solar equipment energy balance. Solar equipment for production of heated air. Absorbers, their types, materials, orientation, construction peculiarities. Solar driers, their capacity, energetic balance, economic characteristics and pay-off time. High temperature production by solar radiation using concentration mirrors.

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1.5.2. Energetic wood. Usage of energetic wood (fire wood, bushes, tree tops, branches and wood waste) for heat production. Wood chips and their usage for heating. Gasification of wood chips in stationary gasificators (gas generators). Construction and operation principles of gasificators. Wood gas treatment. Wood gas costs and economic aspects of its utilization. Gas Diesel and motor fuelling with wood gas.

Usage of wood gas in co-generation equipment. Technical solutions, ecological and economic aspects. Pay-off time and profit.

1.5.3. Biogas and bio fuels. Production of biogas.Bioreactors. Usage of biogas in co-generation. Economic analysis. Production if bio diesel and its chemical composition. Usage of bio diesel in co-generation. Economic substantiation. Technical and economic comparison of bio fuels.

Literature in heat-power engineering:1. J.Nagla, P.Saveļjevs, R.Ciemiņš. Siltumtehnikas pamati. R., “Zvaigzne”, 1981. 2. J.Lamba. Tehniskā termodinamika. R., RTU, 1995. 3. F.Blūma u.c. Alternatīvā enerģija, elektrotehnoloģijas un apkures sistēmas. R., “Ābols”,

1999. 4. M.Niels. Videi piemērotas energosistēmas. R., “Ekodoma”, 1998. 5. D.Osipovs, B.Auniņa. Alternatīvie enerģijas avoti. R., “Avots”, 1990. 6. Янтовский Е.И. Тепловые насосы. М., «Энергоатомиздат», 1989. 7. Павлов И.И., Федоров В. Котельные установки и тепловые сети. М., «Стройиздат»,

1986. 8. Мак Вейг. Применение солнечной энергии. М., «Энергоатомиздат», 1981. 9. A.Fraas. Heat exchanger design. USA, “Wiley & Sons”, 1989.

10. E.Riekstiņš. Matemātiskās fizikas metodes. – R.: Zvaigzne, 1969. - 629 lpp. 11. U.Iļjins, I.Ziemelis. Siltuma procesu matemātiskā modelēšana.–LLU:Jelgava, 1994. - 50

lpp. 12. U.Iljins, I.Ziemelis. Optimization of floor parameters of heat panels for the work at

nonstacionary regime.- LLU Raksti, Nr.9 (286).- Jelgava: LLU.- 12.-17. lpp. 13. U.Iļjins, G.Andersons, I.Ziemelis, V.Gurskis, J.Navickas. Ēku pamatu termiskās

pretestības matemātiskais modelis.- LLU Zinātniskās konferences: Lauku vide`98, materiāli.- Jelgava: LLU, 1998.g. – 16.-26. lpp.

14. U.Iļjins, G.Andersons, I.Ziemelis, V.Gurskis, J.Navickas. Calculations for the Warming of House Foundations.- Jelgava: Proceedings of the Latvia University of Agriculture, (B – trchnical sciences), Nr 16 (293), 1998.- pp. 46-56.

15. Основы когенерации «Ваукеш».- Изд.: Институт энергетической электроники Санкт-Петербург, 1997.- 53 с.

16. Мировая энергетика. Прогноз развития до 2020г.- Москва: Энергия, 1980.- 220 с. 17. Уделл С. Солнечная и другие альтернативные виды энергии.- Москва: Знание,

1980.- 86 с. 18. A.Wellinger, U.Baserga, W.Edelmann, K.Egger, B.Seiler. Biogas- Handbuch:

Grundlagen-Planung-Betricb landwirtschaftlicher Anlagen// Verlag Wirz. AG.Aaran 1991, 178 S.

19. В.С.Дубровский, У.Э.Виестур. Метановое сбраживание сельскохозяйственных отходов.-Рига: Зинатне, 1988.-182 с.

20. R.Kloss. Strom oder Wärme aus Biogas?//Grundlagen der Landtechnik. Dd.32 (1982) Nr.2 S.29 bis 68.

21. N.L.Poulton. Alternative Fuels for Road Vehicles.- Computational Mechanics

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Publications Southampton, UK and Boston, USA, 1994.- 218 p.

Part 2. Electric-power engineering.

2.1. Special course in electrical engineering.Electromagnetic field basic equations. Electromagnetic induction. Maxwell equation integral and differential forms. Electromagnetic field energy and its transmission. Pointing theorem. Energy flow. Energy density. Electromagnetic wave circulation in conductive media and dielectric. Transition processes in linear electric circuits. Calculations of transition processes. Commutation laws. Transition processes with electric arc. Over voltage in electric circuits with inductivity. Transition processes caused by impulses. Electric filters, their types, application. Wave resistance. Electric lines, processes in the lines. Coordinated load. Transmission line efficiency. Stationary waves in the line. Transition processes in lines. Methods of transition process analysis: classical method, operator method, superposition method. Analysis of transition processes using impulse signal effect. Calculation of impulse front deformation. Stationary wave method.

2.2. Modelling and optimisation of electro transmission processes.Low-voltage net design dynamic model. Net object model. Development model. Modelling of net reconstruction measures. Development versions. Basic principles of the power flow and voltage calculation method. Calculation regimes. Economic analysis. Relative economic sensitivity of the versions. Minimum risk. Optimisation of net calculations. Dynamic and quazidynamic optimisation. Elaboration of optimal development plans using the dynamic programming method.

2.3. Electric power supply equipment and objects in agriculture.Specificity of electric power supply for agricultural objects and requirements. Electric loads of agricultural consumers and electro nets. Estimated loads, methods of determination. Graphs of electric loads of various agricultural objects. Agricultural electric-power supply nets. Internal nets of living and production objects. Consumer (farmer) substations. Selection of transformers, earthing and overload protection. Consumers of turbo power, selection of its compensating equipment. Relay protection and automation of electro-power supply systems.

2.4. Electro technology in agriculture.Optic radiation parameters and photo biological effect. Electric lighting and radiation sources. Infra-red and ultra-violet ray equipment. Electric lighting and radiation calculation methods. Electrothermy. Electric microclimate equipment. Electrocaloriphers. Electro – heated wall panels. Electric heating of the ground. Electric boiler houses, methods of their load calculation. Through-flow and accumulating water heaters.Electrochemical treatment of products. Inductive heating. Electro physical, electrochemical, electro biological and electroerrosion methods in treatment of materials. Sorting and cleaning of seeds in electric field. Dielectric separator. Magnetic treatment of food. Air ionisation and treatment using electro technology.

2.5. Alternative sources of electric power and equipment. Conversion of solar radiation into electric power. Photoelectric generator, efficiency and economic substantiation of its application. Direct voltage-alternating voltage converters for transmission of photoelectric energy in electric net. Conversion of wind energy into electro energy. Potential of wind energy in the world and in Latvia. Kinds of wind turbines, their characterization and orientation in wind. Wind turbine working angle, its regulation. Wind turbine storm protection. Wind electro generators. Synchronous, inductive, with permanent magnets. Transmission of electric power produced

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by wind generator to the electric net. Technical, economic and ecological aspects of wind generator operation. Wind energetics development perspective in Latvia.Small hydropower stations (HES). Technical, economic and ecological aspects of building small HES. Hydro turbines, their types and selection. Selection of electric generators. Control and protection devices. Connection to the electric net. Perspective usage of small hydroenergetics in Latvia.

Literature in electroenergetic:1. I.Briedis, J.Dūmiņš u.c. Elektrotehnikas teorētiskie pamati. Elektromagnetiskais lauks.- R.:

1991.- 287 lpp. 2. I.Dūmiņš, Eizentāle u.c. Elektrotehnikas teorētiskie pamati. Pārejas procesi, garās līnijas un

nelineārās ķēdes. – R.: 1989. – 353 lpp. 3. J.Rublanovskis. Pārejas procesi. – Enerģija, M.: 1994.- 88 lpp. (kr.val.).4. V.Bazutkins, L.Dmohovska. Pārejas procesu un pārspriegumu aprēķins.- Energoatomizdat,

M.: 1983.- 327 lpp. (kr.val.).5. Elektroapgāde. J.Gerharda redakcijā. R.: Zvaigzne, 1989.- 329 lpp. 6. Электротехнический справочник, Т.3. кн.1 /Под общей ред. Профессоров МЭИ – М.:

Энергоатомиздат, 1988.- 880 с. 7. Timmermanis K., Rozenkrons J. Elektrisko staciju un apakšstaciju elektriskā daļa. – R.:

Zvaigzne 1988. 421 lpp. 8. Карякип Р.Н. Нормативные основы устройства электроустановок.- М.: ЗАО

Энергосервис, 1998.- 237 с. 9. E.Lakervi and E.J.Holmes. Electricity distribution network design/- Published by: Peter

Peregrinus Ltd, UK 1996, 325 p. 10. J.Putniņš. Elektroapgādes sistēmas relejaizsardzība un automātika. – Rīga: Zvaigzne, 1993.-

450 lpp. 11. Franco S. Electric circuits fundamentals.- International Edition. Saunders College.

Publishing, 1995.- 882 p. 12. A.Vanags. Elektriskie tīkli un sistēmas. – Rīga: Pētergailis, 1988.- I daļa 438 lpp., II daļa.

309 lpp. 13. Braiņins, V.Ivanovs. Apgaismošanas un spēka tīklu uzbūve, montāža un ekspluatācija. –

Rīga: Liesma, 1966. 14. Басов А.М., Быков В.Г., Лаптев А.В., Файн В.Б. Электротехнология.- Москва.:

Агропромиздат, 1985.15. P.Akmens, A.Krēsliņš. Ēku apkure un ventilācija, I daļa Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC, 1995. 16. P.Akmens, A.Krēsliņš. Ēku apkure un ventilācija, II daļa Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC, 1995.17. A.Zviedris. Elektriskās mašīnas. – Rīga: Zvaigzne – 1984.- 367 lpp. 18. Ветроэнергетика. Перевод с англ./ Под ред. Я.И.Шефтера.- Москва, 1982. – 278 с. 19. Wind Workshop.- Virginia, USA: Te Mitre Corporation, 1975.- 506 p.20. L.Jarass. Strom aus Wind. – Berlin: Springer Verlag, 1981. - 142 S. 21. E.Lorenzo. Solar Electricity Engineering of Photovolteric systems.– Sevilla, Spain, 1994.–

316 p.

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Appendix 4.7.MODELLING AND OPTIMIZATION OF AUTOMATIC

CONTROL SYSTEMS OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES

P r o g r a mFaculty of Engineering, Institute of Energetics

Annotation:LENI 601 Modelling and Optimisation of Automatic Control Systems of Technological

Processes. Professor A.Šnīders.2nd semester : 2CP (32h): lectures16h, pr.w.16h., test.Elective course for post-graduate students in Agricultural Engineering.

Classification of automatic control systems (ACS) of technological processes. Feedback, feed forward, complex, hacking, cascade and adaptive control systems. Typical terms of ACS. Their mathematical models, transfer functions, frequency and transient response characteristics. Typical control algorithms and controllers. Adaptive control algorithms. Fuzzy logical control. Structure and operation of fuzzy blocks for overshoot depression. Objects of coupled control. Making of decoupled control using invariance principle. Transfer functions of the decoupling terms.

Selection of optimal control algorithm for static and integral processes with transport delay zone using Lerner’s diagram. Design of optimal controller using Ziegler-Nichol’s method. Parameter setting criteria for industrial controllers.

Composing of mathematical model block diagram for ACS analysis and optimization using computer – aided simulation programs “Classic” and Simulink. Analysis of ACS static and dynamic performances. Performance analysis using transfer functions. Impact of an integrator on the static error. Compensation of the disturbance influences on the process output variables. Performance analysis using Bode frequency plots. Main criteria and characteristics of the ACS operation quality.

The aim of acquisition of the subject: To extend and perfect knowledge in the analysis and synthesis of the automatic control

systems through application of dynamic process modelling computer programs.

Inter-subject links: Requires experience in operational calculations, informatics, principles of

automatic control, mathematical modelling.

Independent work: Design of the ACS of a selected technological operation or process.

Assessment of knowledge: Control work 1: development of the ACS algorithmic structural scheme using its

descriptions and functional block parameters (2h); Control work 2: computer modelling of the given ACS, selection of the control

algorithm and optimisation of the transient response process.

Requirements for taking the test: two tested control works;

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elaborated and defended individual work.

Requirements and order to settle the missed sessions: the time for writing a delayed control work should be coordinated with the

teacher; not tested control work can be written one time; in case of repeatedly not tested control work a theoretical test on the given theme

should be taken.

Detailed programPrinciples of automatic control. Automatic stabilization, feed forward, program control,

cascade and adaptive control systems. The ACS most characteristic steps, mathematical models, transfer functions, frequency and transient response characteristics.

Automatic control algorithms and continuous operation controllers: P – proportional; PD – proportionally differential; PI – proportionally integral; PID – proportionally integral differential. Programmed regulating controllers, setting criteria of their contour parameters. Adaptive control algorithms.

Automatic adaptation of control contour in intellectual controllers. Fuzzy logics. Fuzzy blocks. Continuous signal phasification, selection of control strategy, Fuzzy block dephasification and formation of control effect.

Implementation of Fuzzy logical operations. Application of Fuzzy block for maximal overshoot depression in systems with PI and PID controllers. Objects of coupled control with two control channels. Implementation of decoupled control using invariance principle. Transfer functions of the decoupling terms and their technical implementation.

Selection of the optimal control algorithm for static and integral objects with transport delay. Lerner's diagram.

Operational regulations for relay controllers, continuous operation controllers and special impulse controllers. Optimal controller synthesis using Ziegler – Nichol's method. Parameter setting criteria for industrial controllers.

Composing of ACS algorithmic structural system. Analysis of ACS transient response process using the dynamic performance simulation modelling computer – aided programs Classic and Simulink.

The ACS stability and operation quality analysis according to the distribution of the equation roots in the complex plane characteristic to the system using the Nikwist frequency criterion, transient response characteristics and logarithmic amplitudes and phase frequency plots. Evaluation of the ACS static error: a) according to input effect; b) according to load and input effect. ACS sensitivity and exactness. Influence of the system step static transfer coefficient on the static error. Possibilities to reduce and eliminate the static error including the first and higher row integrator in the control contour.

Main criteria and characteristics of the ACS operation quality.Optimisation methods of the ACS dynamic transient response processes. Influence of

transfer function static and dynamic parameters on the transient response process quality. Line and parallel correction circuits.

Algebraic optimisation criteria using the transfer function.Frequency optimisation criteria using the Bode logarithmic frequency functions.

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Integral optimisation criteria using the regulation process dynamic error integral minimization procedure.

List of teaching and methodical literature:Osis J. Automātiskā vadība un regulēšana. – Rīga: Zvaigzne, 1969. – 267 lpp. Raņķis I. Regulēšanas teorijas pamati. – Rīga: RTU, 1998. – 90 lpp. Engineering manual of automatic control: Heating, Ventilating and Air conditioning / David

J.Larmin. – Minneapolis, Minnesota: Honeywell Plaza, 1989. – 412 p. F.Haugen. Learn Simulink in 3 hours. – Norway: Control Consult, 1997. – 31 p.

C.A.Smith, A.B.Corripio. Principles and Practice of Automatic Process Control. – New York: John Willey & Sons Inc., 1997. – 768 p.

Бесекарский В.А. Сборник задач по теории автоматического регулирования и управления.- М.: Наука, 1969. – 587 с.

Башарин А.В., Постников Ю.В. Примеры расчета автоматизированного электропривода на ЭВМ: Учебное пособие для вузов. – 3-е изд. – Ленинград, Энергоатомиздат, 1990. – 512 с.

Боднокин В.У., Чинаев П.И. Анализ и синтез систем автоматического управления на ЭВМ. Алгоритмы и программы. – М.: Радио и связь, 1986. – 248 с.

Куропаткин П.В. Теория автоматического управления. Учебное пособие. – Москва: Высшая школа, 1973. – 528 с.

Наладка средств автоматизации и автоматических систем регулирования. – Справочное пособие / Под ред. А.С.Клюева. – М.: Энергоатомиздат, 1989. – 368 с.

Проектирование следящих систем / Под. ред. Л.В.Рабиновича. – М.: Машиностроение, 1969. – 499 с.

Системы автоматического управления объектами с переменными параметрами: Инженерные методы анализа и синтеза / Под. ред. Б.Н.Петрова. – М.: Машиностроение, 1986. – 256 с.

Топчеев Ю.И. Атлас для проектирования систем автоматического регулирования: Учебное пособие для вузов. – М.: Машиностроение, 1989. – 752 с.

Ф.Чаки. Современная теория управления. Нелинейные, оптимальные и адаптивные системы. – М.: Мир, 1975. – 424 с.

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CONCLUSION

Study and Research Trends

1. The process of studies:- activisation and increasing of proportion of student independent work;- evaluation of efficiency of the system of subjects;- evaluation and correction of the proportion of compulsory and elective subjects;- more active preparation of methodical materials for studies; - introduction of new teaching methods based on up – dated information technologies for part

– time students;- activisation of student self-government activities;- evaluation of the study plans and tendency to larger volume subjects.

2. Closer integration of the process of studies, science and production:- more active attraction of practical workers in the process of studies;- deepening of co-operation with corresponding institutions and organisations in preparation

of Bachelor and Master works;- more active participation in market-demanded research including teachers, representatives

from production and students in them;- active work organising independent accredited laboratories.

3. International co-operation:- active participation of teachers and students in the EU educational program SOCRATES –

ERASMUS;- activisation of personal contacts with foreign higher schools and improving of qualification

in them (in the West and the East);- more active preparation of subjects in English and German;- activisation of training Doctor and Master students abroad.

4. Wider and more active advertising of studies.5. Development of the material basis for studies:

- establishment of new computer classes for disciplines in designing;- up-dating of teaching and research laboratory equipment;- procurement of copying, multimedia equipment etc.

6. Research:- participation in international research projects;- participation of teachers in expert work in their branches in Latvia and abroad;- activisation of work in research projects initiated by the LSC and market.

Further Development Plan of the Agricultural Engineering Study Programs

Academic year 2001/2002:- activisation of student independent work due to transition to 16 classroom hours per week;- preparation and multiplication of informative methodical materials in every subject;

22

- connection of all computers of the faculty in a net and establishment of Internet radio connection;

- partly renovation of computers in the computer class;- preparation of timber testing laboratory for accreditation;- evaluation of part-time study system to improve efficiency;- improvement of laboratory material basis;- establishment of contacts and preparation of applications for exchange of teachers and

students in the frame of SOCRATES – ERASMUS program.

Academic year 2002/2003:- preparation of subjects in English and German;- evaluation and development of the syllabus and training in professional studies;- increasing of the number of computers to improve the quality of work;- improvement of the material basis of laboratories;- accreditation of the timber testing laboratory;- attraction of new teachers;- critical evaluation and correction of the Master study program reducing the number of

subjects and increasing their volume;- establishment of contacts and preparation of applications for exchange of teachers and

students in the frame of SOCRATES – ERASMUS program.

Academic year 2003-2004:- enlargement of international co-operation for exchange of teachers and students;- critical evaluation and correction of the Doctoral study program to increase its efficiency;- evaluation of the part-time training system and innovations, elaboration and implementation

of necessary corrections;- improvement of laboratory material basis;- increasing of the number of computers to improve the quality of work;- attraction of new teachers;- preparation of further education program.

Academic year 2004/2005:- reorganisation of study programs according to the subject system;- preparation of study materials for a part of subjects electronically;- evaluation of organisation and efficiency of independent work of students and preparation of

the necessary activities of methodical character to improve efficiency for implementation;- improvement of laboratory material basis;- increasing of the number of computers to improve the quality of work;- attraction of new teachers.

Academic year 2005/2006:- partly implementation of distant learning in part-time studies;- preparation of documents for the next accreditation step;- improvement of laboratory material basis;- increasing of the number of computers to improve the quality of work;- attraction of new teachers.

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