Major Research Areas

Advanced Manufacturing & Multifunctional Materials

This area focuses on the design, manufacturing, and optimization of materials that exhibit multiple functionalities, such as structural, chemical, thermal, and electrical properties. Research includes the development of multifunctional composites, advanced alloys and advanced manufacturing techniques, such as additive and hybrid manufacturing. This research aims to create materials with enhanced performance for applications in aerospace, defense, electronics, and other high-tech industries. This area also encompasses the development of functional materials and devices, including sensors, actuators, and wearable electronics.

Faculty: Dr. Mac Haas, Dr. Antonios Kontsos, Dr. Behrad Koohbor, Dr. Aditya Lele, Dr. Paromita Nath, Dr. Amin Nozariasbmarz, Dr. Anu Osta, Dr. Chen Shen, Dr. Wei Xue

Combustion, Reacting Flows, & Energy Systems

This area focuses on the study of combustion processes and reacting flows, including combustion chemistry, fluid dynamics, and heat and mass transfer mechanisms. It also covers energy storage technologies, such as batteries, capacitors, and supercapacitors. This research aims to improve the efficiency and sustainability of energy systems and enhance our understanding of complex chemical and physical interactions in these systems.

Faculty: Dr. Smitesh Bakrania, Dr. Mac Haas, Dr. Aditya Lele, Dr. Amin Nozariasbmarz

Digital Engineering, Artificial Intelligence (AI), & Machine Learning

This area encompasses the application of digital engineering methods, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) techniques to enhance cyberphysical systems. Research includes developing digital twins, predictive modeling, and optimization algorithms to improve system performance and decision-making. The goal is to advance the integration of AI and ML in engineering to drive innovation and efficiency.

Faculty: Dr. Antonios Kontsos, Dr. Aditya Lele, Dr. Paromita Nath, Dr. Yashwant Sinha

Engineering Education

This area focuses on the development and implementation of innovative teaching methods and educational technologies in engineering. Research includes the design of interactive learning experiences, the integration of digital tools and multimedia in education, the advancement of online and hybrid learning models, and integrated research and education activities to cultivate the future engineering workforce. Emphasis is placed on improving student engagement, enhancing the effectiveness of learning, and fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This area also explores the assessment and evaluation of educational outcomes to ensure continuous improvement in engineering education.

Faculty: Prof. Melanie Amadoro, Dr. Smitesh Bakrania, Dr. Antonios Kontsos, Dr. Anu Osta, Dr. Yashwant Sinha, Dr. Mitja Trkov, Dr. Wei Xue

Experimental Mechanics & Structural Health Monitoring

Research in this area involves experimental mechanics, including the study of metals, multifunctional composites and graded structures. It also covers structural health monitoring techniques to assess and maintain the integrity of structures over time. This includes the development of metamaterials for enhanced sensing capabilities and the monitoring of noise and vibration to ensure structural performance and safety.

Faculty: Dr. Antonios Kontsos, Dr. Behrad Koohbor, Dr. Chen Shen, Dr. Yashwant Sinha, Dr. Paromita Nath

Human-Machine Interface (HMI) & Wearable or Soft Robotics

This area explores the development of hardware and software that facilitate effective human-machine interactions. It includes advancements in user interfaces, control systems, and sensor technologies across various industries. Additionally, research in wearable robotics focuses on developing robotic systems and soft robotics for applications in healthcare, rehabilitation, and human augmentation, improving functionality and user experience.

Faculty: Dr. Antonios Kontsos, Dr. Mitja Trkov, Dr. Wei Xue, Dr. Hong Zhang

Renewable and Alternate Energy

This area focuses on transitioning to a more sustainable energy system. This includes research into renewable and alternate energy, including solar, wind, thermal, hydropower, nuclear, and hydrogen. While each type has its benefits and challenges, collectively they provide diverse solutions to meet global energy demands and mitigate climate change. This group looks at the design, development, lifetime evaluation, implementation, operations, and maintenance, as well as the design of predictive and proactive maintenance schemes of existing and novel energy conversion systems and associated technologies.

Faculty: Dr. Smitesh Bakrania, Dr. Aditya Lele, Dr. Amin Nozariasbmarz, Dr. Yashwant Sinha

Robotics & Mechatronics

This research area covers the development of robotic systems and mechatronic devices for a variety of applications. It includes unmanned vehicles for agriculture, energy, and environmental monitoring, as well as electromechanical systems designed to enhance productivity and safety in industrial settings. The focus is on integrating robotics and mechanical systems to address complex real-world problems and improve operational efficiency.

Faculty: Dr. Mitja Trkov, Dr. Hong Zhang

Sustainable Materials & Processes

This area explores the development of novel sustainable processes and materials to address climate change and promote environmental sustainability. Research includes the use of multiscale simulations and machine learning tools to understand and accelerate material discovery. Key topics include sustainable fuel chemistry, material synthesis, polymer recycling, and thermal energy harvesting. This research aims to enhance material efficiency and create innovative solutions for sustainable manufacturing and processing.

Faculty: Dr. Mac Haas, Dr. Aditya Lele, Dr. Paromita Nath, Dr. Amin Nozariasbmarz

Uncertainty Quantification & Process Design

This area focuses on uncertainty quantification and management, particularly in the context of additive manufacturing, healthcare, and power systems. Research involves developing probabilistic models, digital twins, and methods for process design and control under uncertainty. The aim is to improve the reliability and predictability of engineering systems and processes by better understanding and managing uncertainties.

Faculty: Dr. Antonios Kontsos, Dr. Paromita Nath

Major Research Centers

Mechanical Engineering faculty also participate in the following research institutes and centers:

• Digital Engineering Hub (DEHub)
• Advanced Materials & Manufacturing Institute (AMMI)
• Sustainable Facilities Center (SFC)
• Machine & Virtual Reality Center (MAVRC)
• Kern Engineering Entrepreneurship Network (KEEN)