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Research & Impact

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Stanford’s Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) works in four major research areas: computational engineering, design, sustainability, and human health. Our research philosophy is simple: Push the limits of the possible — the ultra-efficient and most sustainable, the fully autonomous and super-controlled, the bioinspired and maximally enduring.

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ME Research Areas

Important multidisciplinary, project-based learning opportunities within Mechanical Engineering’s three research themes employ a range of methodologies — design thinking, multiscale modeling, physics-based simulation, control systems, and artificial intelligence — to the study of the nanoscale to complex living and mechanical systems. See where you fit in.

New knit haptic sleeve simulates realistic touch

"Researchers at Stanford Engineering have developed a lightweight, comfortable knit sleeve that uses pressure-based haptics to simulate touch, opening up new possibilities for wearable devices."

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Professor Steve Collins discovers a technology to replace traditional motors in next-generation robots

"Researchers at Stanford have designed a spring-assisted actuator – a device that can accomplish dynamic tasks using a fraction of the energy previously required."

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News & Ideas

Pushing the limits of what’s possible: Explore the latest ideas coming out of our labs. See the impact of this important research on the world around us.