Robin Cleveland, Ph.D., Texas at Austin. Debora Compton, Ph.D., Stanford. Conducts fundamental experimental studies of the physical structure and statistical behavior of boundary-layer turbulence. Focus is on boundary layers subject to streamline curvature. Applications include active control of stall.
Research is in kinematics, dynamics, and control, especially as applied to robotics.
Current topics include the identification of friction models based on surface physics, determination of standards for friction parameter identification in assembled machines, and the creation of novel adaptive and robust compensators for precise motion control. Emphasizes both basic research and prototype product development. Technology transfer to the marketplace occurs via licensing agreements with existing companies or spin-off ventures from the University. Sheryl Grace, Ph.D., Notre Dame. R. Glynn Holt, Ph.D., Mississippi.