Virginia Tech Mechanical Engineering Annual Report Annual Report 2016 | Page 26

AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS AND INTELLIGENT MACHINES LABORATORY Under the direction of Professor Azim Eskandarian, the ASIM researches controlling multiple robotic and vehicle systems to operate autonomously or semi-autonomously. Research uses intelligence created by sensors, sensor fusion, connectivity through communications, and advanced controls, and learning algorithms. The lab also learns from biological systems and human brain functions through signal processing to mimic intelligent motor control and understand cognitive behavior for human task control. A current application focus is on using these methods for advanced driver assistance systems. ADVANCED PROPULSION AND POWER LABORATORY Under the direction of Professor Srinath Ekkad and Professor Todd Lowe (Aerospace and Ocean Engineering), the APPL is a state-of-theart facility dedicated to the study of jet propulsion, gas turbine engines, and other propulsion systems. Research focuses on analysis, design and diagnostics. The facility houses a number of test cells to accommodate a variety of engines and components; and incorporates laser research and calibration equipment and a workshop.