Mechanics

Mechanics is the study of how solid objects (e.g. buildings, cells, airplane wings, tumors, soft robots, bones) deform in response to the forces and torques they experience. This discipline includes Acoustics, Vibrations, Biomechanics, and Mechanobiology.

Acoustics and Vibrations

Acoustics research studies all aspects of sound (audible and inaudible) including: generation, propagation, detection and even perception. Acoustics offers challenges that are fundamental in nature and also broad in application. At the human scale, acoustics and vibration are closely linked and a vast amount of research is aimed at reducing vibrations in order to reduce the associated noise.  At smaller scales, vibrations can be utilized in measurement devices. Acoustics and vibration research carried out in the Mechanical Engineering Department can be broadly divided into the following categories.

Biomechanics and Mechanobiology

Biomechanics is the application of mechanical engineering theory and practice to biological materials and systems. The department hosts a diverse portfolio in biomechanics research, with emphases on orthopedic and cardiovascular diseases, cancer detection, and diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound. Some projects are focused on the discovery of new principles that describe how cells, tissues, and organs respond to mechanical forces. Others are “bench-to-bedside” endeavors that seek immediate impact on patient’s health through the development of new technologies or treatments. We invite you to explore the links below and learn how our faculty and students are expanding the interface between engineering and biology.

Solid Mechanics

Solid mechanics is the study of how objects (e.g. buildings, cells, airplane wings, tumors, soft robots, bones) deform in response to the forces and torques they experience.