Machine Dynamics is a field of study that concerns motion of various systems and forces acting on these systems during this motion. It primarily involves such topics as kinematics, dynamics, solid mechanics, acoustics and Finite Element Method. Some of the most important problems that Machine Dynamics have to deal with are inertia and vibrations. To predict the behaviour of a machine and control it or compensate unneeded effects and disturbances, various sophisticated methods and techniques are used. Contemporary, to achieve these tasks, modern machines are designed as complex mechatronic systems that combine electronic, electrical and mechanical elements as well as control, telecommunication and information technologies. To attain the best results, it is also advised to apply the mechatronic design approach principles during the whole design process. This means that Machine Dynamics and Mechatronics both play a key role in modern mechanical engineering as there is a growing need to achieve interdisciplinary, synergic effects that permit engineers to enhance and optimise their projects and designs or even go beyond limitations of traditional solutions and explore new territories and technologies.
Research activities performed at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology in the field of Machine Dynamics and Mechatronics concentrate on analysis, modelling, simulations, design and control of various systems. Some examples of considered topics are:
- multibody systems dynamics,
- systems’ structural dynamics,
- cable systems dynamics,
- dynamics of saws for wood industry,
- systems for ship industry and power engineering, for example turbines,
- ships, boats and off-shore constructions,
- hydraulic drives, gearboxes and pumps,
- diagnostics systems,
- manufacturing processes, for example in metal and wood machining,
- vibrations of machines and structures,
- applications of Finite Element Method in systems’ dynamic analysis and nonlinear problems of stability and strength,
- theoretical and experimental modal analysis including modal identification and Finite Element Method models updating,
- application of mechatronic solutions in various systems and processes, for example in machining and robotics.
Conducted research activities have both theoretical and experimental, practical nature. In many cases, they are carried out in close cooperation with other universities, research and development centres and industrial companies from Poland and other countries. This lets the research to go in pair with current scientific trends as well as with demands and expectations from the industry. This helps attain interest from other researchers or employees around the world and start further, post Ph.D. studies career.
The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology owns various modern laboratories equipped in state-of-the-art instrumentation allowing researchers and Ph.D. students to perform their research on the highest scientific and technical level.
Keywords: Machine Dynamics, Mechatronics, Finite Element Methods, Vibrations, Robotics, Turbines, Ship design
