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Research

Mechatronics and Robotics

Mechatronics researchers in UW Mechanical Engineering are engaged in an array of groundbreaking projects at the intersections of mechanics, electronics and computing.

Much of this work takes place in the area of robotics; our faculty are at the forefront of research in robot-human interaction, nanorobotics, automation and advanced manufacturing. The new devices, technologies, systems and processes being developed in our labs will have lasting impact on industries as diverse as health care, automotive, aeronautics, manufacturing and information technology across the state of Washington and beyond.

Key research areas

  • Robotics and human interaction
  • Robotics for manufacturing
  • Controls and system dynamics
  • Sensors and actuators
  • Compatible nanorobotics for human health
  • Augmented and virtual reality
  • Prosthetic devices
  • Autonomous systems

Research highlights

The Autonomous Insect Robotics Laboratory develops technology aimed at insect-sized robots to create tiny robots capable of sensing and performing in the world without a human operator.

ME faculty are advancing the field of photonics through innovations in imaging technologies, optical scanning, molecular imaging, biomedical diagnostics and instrumentation.

Boeing Advanced Research Collaboration pairs Boeing engineers with students and faculty to develop solutions for Boeing products in the areas of automation, robotics, composites and aircraft assembly.

Focused on amplifying human and robotic interaction, the AMP Lab advances understanding of the dynamics and control of movement to design treatment strategies and assistive technologies that improve function and quality of life.

Related News

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Mon, 06/21/2021

Husky Robotics delivers at the 2021 Virtual University Rover Challenge

With a perfect final mission, Husky Robotics took the top score by a U.S. team in the the 2021 Virtual University Rover Challenge.

A robot arm is positioned over a case full of a set of identical metal parts arranged in a 7x5 array.

Tue, 03/30/2021 | Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Institute

Robotic Inspection of Complex Metallic Parts

With detection rates above 95%, a project led by Xu Chen demonstrates the reliability of using robotics for identifying defects in metallic parts.

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Mon, 12/07/2020 | UW News

The Smellicopter is an obstacle-avoiding drone that uses a live moth antenna to seek out smells

A new bio-hybrid drone uses a moth antenna to autonomously sniff out odors.

Steve Shen at podium on left, cover of the Journal of Vibration and Acoustics on right

Thu, 11/05/2020

Steve Shen: Journal Editor Extraordinaire

Through a concerted effort over six years, making sometimes difficult decisions, Steve Shen doubled the impact factor of the ASME Journal of Vibration and Acoustics.