Smart Structures and Acoustics Laboratory

Overview:
The mission of the Smart Structures and Acoustic Laboratory (SSAL) is to conduct research and promote education in the areas of Vibrations, Acoustics, Intelligent Material Systems, and Controls.  Intelligent material systems, adaptive structures, and smart structures refer to mechanical systems that incorporate actuators, sensors, and control systems.  This allows a system to change its specific parameters in a desired manner and to adapt and vary its performance depending on the changing external conditions.  These are also sometimes referred to as mechatronic systems.   Personnel associated with the lab have a strong background in the areas of structural vibrations, mechanical design, acoustics, intelligent materials, and control systems.  The laboratory focuses on experimental and theoretical research associated with structural vibrations, acoustics, and smart structures. 

Research:
The laboratory has graduated 9 M.S. and Ph.D. students and has conducted over $1.2 million dollars in externally funded research, supported by: Florida DOT, NCIIA, Motorola, U.S. Department of Commerce, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Sea Grant, and the Army’s Natick Soldier Center.    

Laboratory Restructuring:
The Smart Structures and Acoustics Laboratory (Directed by Dr. Christopher Niezrecki) is currently merging with the Modal Analysis and Controls Laboratory (MACL) within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at UMASS-Lowell.  MACL is directed by Dr. Peter Avitabile (http://macl.caeds.eng.uml.edu/index.html).  The combined new laboratory will be called: Structural Dynamic and Acoustic Systems (SDAS) Laboratory and will be co-directed by both faculty members. 

New Website:
The new website for SDAS if currently under construction and will be made available in May, 2006. 

For more information contact:
Christopher Niezrecki
Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering
University of Massachusetts Lowell
One University Avenue
Lowell, MA 01854-2881
 
E-mail: Christopher_Niezrecki@uml.edu
Phone: 978-934-2963 (W)
Fax: 978-934-3048