Mechanical Engineering

Unmanned Air Vehicle Systems

Department faculty conduct applied research and development in the areas of navigation and control, airframe design, mini-turbine power generation and propulsion systems, and stability augmentation.

Aerosol Mechanics in Biological Systems

Scholarly activity is directed towards developing a series of increasingly sophisticated lung deposition models to accurately account for morphology, air flow patterns, subject breathing variability's and particle dynamic behavior. The models may be used to predict carcinogen specific dosimetry, human risk assessment and toxicology relationships for all ages, specifically children with healthy and diseased lungs such as patients with asmtha, bronchitis or other chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders.

Tribology and Lubrication in Microsystems

Current research studies the interaction of thin lubricant films with structurally compliant surfaces, including effects of geometric irregularity, lubricant supply, and lubricant cavitation on predicted mechanical system performance.

Performance of Novel Materials

Faculty conduct research on fatigue life prediction and reliability in the aerospace industry, and are expanding their focus to include biomaterials. Current projects include fatigue in gas turbine engine materials; and characterization of diffusion bonded alloys. Theoretical work includes analysis of composite drive shafts with integral shaft couplings.