This year, eight professors and nine students from the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA) showcased their research at the International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition (IMECE), demonstrating the power of collaboration and innovation. Their work addressed diverse and impactful topics, including simulation technologies, electromechanical devices, legged robots, Internet of Things (IoT), and Industry 4.0 concepts. Organized by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), IMECE is the largest research and development (R&D) conference focused on mechanical engineering while fostering interdisciplinary perspectives.
Dr. Ivana Milanovic, professor of mechanical engineering, and Dr. Tom Eppes, professor of electrical and computer engineering, presented their work titled “Multiphysics Course Driving Student Autonomous Research.” They introduced two innovative curricular strategies leveraging digital technology: the integration of ‘analog’ and ‘digital’ learning and a multidisciplinary simulation-based course accessible to students across all majors. These approaches are designed to enhance students’ readiness for self-directed research and prepare them for the workforce.
Beyond her contributions at IMECE, Dr. Milanovic began a five-year term on the Executive Committee (EC) of the ASME Fluids Engineering Division (FED). During her tenure, she will assume progressively significant roles, contributing to the division’s mission and advancing its objectives.
CETA faculty also made strides in mechatronics and rehabilitation technology. The Autonomous Mobile Robotics Research Group, led by Dr. Akin Tatoglu, introduced an innovative balance training device for physical therapy and athletic training. Their paper, “Benchmarking the Efficacy of Feedback-Guided Self-Balance Equipment with Variable Motion Regimens for Physical Therapy and Elite Athletes,” presented by Tatoglu, Campana, and Asaki, highlighted a versatile system designed for accessibility and customization. This device enables physical therapists and trainers to remotely monitor progress and adjust regimens based on real-time performance data. Featuring a minimalist user interface, the device caters to individuals across all technical skill levels, offering personalized exercise programs tailored to specific needs and age groups - a significant advancement in personalized rehabilitation technology.
Dr. Tatoglu continues his active role as a member of the ASME IMECE Control Theory and Applications Technical Committee.
Fig 1. Feedback Guided Self Balance Equipment and its Interface
Meanwhile, the Assistive Robot Team (ART) achieved new milestones through their Human Assistive and Robust Quadruped (HARQ) project and Humanoid Assistive and Reconfigurable Technology (HART) project. Led by Dr. Kiwon Sohn, the team integrated IoT capabilities with quadruped robotics, paving the way for new dimensions in human-robot interaction. Their paper, “Integration of IoT Network and Sensors with A Full-Sized Quadruped in Simulated Human-Centered Environment,” authored by Ho, Cajuste, Schneidler, Tatoglu, and Sohn, showcased a robot capable of real-time environmental data collection and response. This robust system is tailored for seamless operation in human environments.
The teams’ second paper “Electromechanical design and vehicle driving capability upgrade of a full-sized humanoid, HART” authored by Bickford, Yang, Esteves, Shen, and Sohn, explored significant mechanical upgrades for their humanoid robot. The project optimized magnetic gearing and integrated advanced computer vision techniques, including monocular lane detection and neural networks for autonomous navigation and vehicle operation.
Fig 2. HARQ Quadruped Robot and HART BiPed Robot
Further strengthening CETA's leadership in engineering education, Prof. Campana presented a comprehensive framework for robotics education titled "Strategy for Systematic Education of Robotics, Drones and Unmanned Systems Through Industry 4.0 Related Case Studies." The approach introduces students to advanced robotics concepts through hands-on case studies, ranging from unmanned aerial systems to intelligent wheelchairs and automated manufacturing systems. Campana was also recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation from ASME for his service as a judge in the 2024 ASME Government Agency Student Poster Competition,
"These developments reflect CETA's commitment to educational innovation and practical research," stated Dr. Milanovic. "By combining transformative classroom experiences with hands-on research opportunities, we are fostering an environment where students and faculty can push the boundaries of engineering."
CETA’s impactful presence at IMECE 2024 underscores its dedication to innovation and collaboration, firmly positioning its faculty and students at the forefront of interdisciplinary engineering solutions.