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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 four 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.

Haptic sleeve on an arm

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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Energy-recycling actuator prototype

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.