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Research within mechanics

Research in mechanics at the Faculty of Engineering contributes to fundamental research and societal challenges and needs within the classical disciplines of mechanical engineering and intelligent control of mechanical systems.

Mechanical engineering at the Faculty of Engineering covers a range of focus research areas including fluid dynamics, aeroelasticity, structural dynamics, materials technology, fracture and fatigue, multiphysics simulation and optimization, thermal process engineering, energy systems modelling, condition monitoring and intelligent controls. These focus areas contribute to application research areas on maritime technology, energy systems, P2X technology, and mechatronics systems such as robotics and drone technology and additive manufacturing.

Research areas

The Faculty of Engineering has special focus on developing novel, sustainable solutions for mechanical design, structural dynamics, topology optimization, thermal systems, materials technology, as well as control of electromechanical devices such as robots or drones.

Fluid dynamics and aeroelasticity

Fluid dynamics and aeroelasticity are two important fields within mechanics, particularly relevant in the study of how fluids (liquids and gases) interact with solid structures and how these interactions influence the behavior and design of various mechanical systems, especially in aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering.

Structural dynamics, materials technology, fracture and fatigue

Structural dynamics, materials technology, fracture, and fatigue are fundamental aspects of mechanics that focus on understanding how structures behave under various conditions, how materials contribute to structural integrity, and how damage or failure occurs over time.

Multiphysics simulation and optimization

Multiphysics simulation and optimization encompass advanced methods, parallel computing, and topology optimization. It focuses on interactions between mechanical, thermal, and fluidic fields, such as heat transfer and thermomechanics. Tools are created for simulating and designing electronics cooling, thermal management, microfluidic devices, casting, and welding processes.

Thermal process engineering, energy systems modelling

Thermal process engineering and energy systems modeling are integral areas within mechanical engineering that focus on the efficient conversion, transfer, and utilization of energy, particularly heat. These fields are critical for designing and optimizing systems in industries such as power generation, chemical processing, manufacturing, and environmental engineering.

Condition monitoring and intelligent controls

The research on condition monitoring and intelligent controls focuses on modern methods for controlling and estimating mechatronic systems. This includes navigation, stabilization, and energy optimization. The research is closely connected to reducing energy consumption by optimizing vehicle paths, improving cooling and heating systems, and stabilizing vessels to optimize cargo loading.

Maritime technology 

The main focus of maritime technology is to create methods and models that can be used in the maritime sector. The emphasis is on sustainable ship operation and ship construction, with a particular focus on energy efficiency, vibration analysis, and fatigue. 

Mechanics of drone and robot technology

Research on drone and robot technology focuses on the design and manufacturing of unmanned vehicle platforms, including aerial and underwater drones, autonomous ships ("droneships"), and off-road vehicles.

Additive manufacturing

Additive Manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is a transformative approach in mechanical engineering, enabling the creation of complex structures and components by adding material layer by layer. This technology has broad applications in industries like aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer goods, offering new possibilities in design, prototyping, and production. 

Faculty of Engineering University of Southern Denmark

  • Campusvej 55
  • Odense M - 5230

Last Updated 18.09.2024