Projects
Mechanical characterization of micro-tissues for tissue engineering KU Leuven
We will make use of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), a high-resolution technique that measures local mechanical forces from the deflection of a cantilever, and nanoindentation (NI). We will perform AFM and NI measurements on micro-tissues from adult progenitors (hPDCs and iPS) at different stages of chondro-genic differentiation. From AFM measurements, we will obtain the apparent visco-elastic properties of the multicellular material, as it ...
Towards industry-oriented and applied research on mechanical engineering and mechantronics VIVES
Engineering of Soft Matter with (Bio)Polymers: Development of multiphasic polymeric materials with diverse electrical functionalities using flow-induced microstructure engineering. KU Leuven
Due to rising consumer demands, enhanced functionality and miniaturization of many devices, material requirements become increasingly stringent and multiple characteristics are required within one material. Polymers have substantial advantages as compared to other materials, e.g. they are lightweight, flexible, easy to process and corrosion-resistant. However, most polymers are electrical insulators and have no electrical or magnetic ...
Strategic Research Programme: Center for model-based system improvement - From Computer-Aided Engineering to Model-Aided Engineering Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Development and validation of high-definition numerical methods for mechanical design under manufacturing process variation KU Leuven
The objective of this project is to develop new techniques for uncertainty quantification in FE models used for mechanical design, and to apply those to model manufacturing variability. All developments in the project will be done in the perspective of their application in this mechanical engineering context. The considered uncertainty relates to geometric and material properties of mechanical components caused by typical mechanical ...
FIBEr, towards a reference center for standardized mechanical validation of soft tissue prostheses KU Leuven
Mechanical assessment of metals after gaseous hydrogenation. Ghent University
Hydrogen gas is currently considered as the best potential replacement for fossil fuels, during the ongoing energy transition. However, the interaction between hydrogen and metals results in unpredictable material failure. Via the requested technologically advanced equipment, the specific characteristics of this interaction can be analysed, both on a microstructural, as on a macroscopic level to evaluate the material’s mechanical ...
Single-Sided Ultrasonic Characterization of (Damaged) Composites having Mechanical and/or Geometrical Anisotropy Ghent University
The current and next generation composites are designed by combining high strength fibers with a low density matrix (i.e. low weight), in view of exploiting the advantageous of both. The application of these composites in primary components has changed several industries, including aerospace. The reverse side of the medal is their more involved mechanical nature (complex internal reinforcement architecture, layered media ...) as well as their ...
Dynamic vibration absorbers with arbitrary connection characteristics for reconfigurable mechanical assemblies Ghent University
Excessive vibrations are detrimental to a mechanical system’s structural integrity, performance and production quality/output. Emerging design trends incorporate light and slender material, reconfigurable and modular assemblies, and have changing loads and propulsion. This leads to vibration susceptible designs with uncertain, time-varying vibratory behavior. To reduce excessive vibrations, a passive device called a dynamic vibration absorber ...