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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

Thu, 07/09/2020

UW leading effort to map northwest’s robotics training resources

As part of a major project by the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute, the University of Washington is leading a canvassing effort to identify all of the potential training resources in advanced robotics for manufacturing across five states: Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho and Alaska.

Mon, 01/27/2020 | UW Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering on the nanoscale

In conjunction with the Institute for Nano-Engineered Systems, ME faculty are developing new materials, systems and devices for environmental monitoring and health care.

Mon, 11/18/2019 | UW Mechanical Engineering

The murmuration whisperer

ME professor Santosh Devasia is investigating how the flocking behavior of birds could inform autonomous robotics research.

Mon, 07/08/2019 | Wired

An itty-bitty robot that lifts off like a sci-fi spaceship

ME faculty Igor Novosselov and Sawyer Fuller are developing small flying robots that can be powered by ion propulsion.