Research and Facilities

The Department of Engineering Design, Manufacturing and Management Systems is involved in a variety of research and training activities. The following is an overview of the areas that research teams work in, with some faculty members participating in more than one research area. The descriptions that follow present many of the areas of expertise that the listed faculty has.

Research

  • Human and robot interaction explores artificial intelligence in manufacturing operations and remote process improvement. 
    Faculty members: Pavel Ikonomov and Alamgir Choudhury
  • The Center for Integrated Design is dedicated to virtual engineering focusing on reverse engineering, rapid prototyping and virtual reality. Computer aided design and computer aided analysis are applied to parametric machine design (all major integrated packages available) . Finite element analysis is utilized in biomechanics, shape optimization, optimal design of kinematic systems, dynamic modeling, and crack propagation modeling. Virtual manufacturing and assembly may be applied all the way through nano-assembly.
    Faculty members: Mitchel Keil, Jorge Rodriguez, Alamgir Choudhury and Pavel Ikonomov
  • Computer integrated manufacturing and computer aided manufacturing are applied to improve productivity and product quality. The design and analysis of advanced manufacturing systems reduce problems with work-in-process, lead time, capacity and queuing.
    Faculty members: Tarun Gupta and Pavel Ikonomov
  • Dimensional metrology methods are used to evaluate parts and tooling for precision, accuracy, surface finish, capability, and tolerance modeling. The ATOS II high-resolution digital scanning system allows precise volumetric scanning for dimensional verification. Training is offered in part and process verification through the application of quality management systems and ISO 9000.
    Faculty members: Mitchel Keil
  • High performance cast metal design uses the four major solidification software packages, advancement of non-traditional casting processes, and thermal distortion testing of a variety of bonded mold materials. Sam Ramrattan.
  • Plastics process improvement includes mold and tooling design, polymer flow analysis, mold cooling optimization and process analysis. Process design and validation is for use of post-industrial and post-consumer recycled plastics by injection molding and extrusion.
    Faculty members: Jay Shoemaker

Laboratories

The EDMMS department has a complete set of state-of-the-industry laboratories, including the following:

The EDMMS department also has shared responsibilities for the College Machine Shop

 For more information

Information for funding sources, research policies and forms, grant writing, etc.