Research

Research History

My early research in Engineeing started in the area of Computational Mechanics.  For my Ph.D. work I used the Boundary Element Method to solve Inverse problems in engineering.   Inverse problems are problems where the results/effects are known but the cause is to be determined.  I explored different classes of problems such as non-destructive ways of internal flaw detection by measuring surface temperature, interface heat transfer coefficient determination and predicting tool shape required to machine a certain shape using electro-discharge machining.  For my post-doctoral work at University of Notre Dame I worked on solidification in die-casting problems, specifically with the goal of reducing the cycle-time of the process.  Subsequently, I worked for two years at Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC) as an Analysis Engineer.  At CTC I got the worked on modeling and simulation of a variety of manufactruring processes such as welding, casting, thremal spraying, and metal forming.   During my early years at Detroit Mercy I was mostly working on manufactrung process related problems such as Laser forming, welding and other joining methods, and machining.    During those early years I also colaborated with a number of faculty members in Electrical Engineering and started an effort in the interdisciplinary area of Mechatronics.  Our work led to several NSF grants, minors in Mechatronics, graduate research and eventually the launching of an undergraduate major in Robotics and Mechatronics.  During my tenure at Detroit Mercy, I have taken the lead in launching two different programs of significance, the undergraduate major in Robotics and Mechatronics and a graduate certificate in Advanced Electric Vehicles.   While doing all the technical research I have also focused a lot of energy on understanding how to make engineering education process better and work for everyone.  Currently, I am working on a broad goal of engineering curriculum reform and am particularly passionate about the redesign of the engineering ecosystem to make it appropriate for the current times and for the future.