Penn Engineering
The Department of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MEAM) offers undergraduate and graduate programs that prioritize rigor through hands-on projects, practical experience and collaboration. With a strong focus on analysis, research and modeling, we equip students to become leaders in industry, government and academia.
How can we reimagine mechanical systems to achieve unprecedented efficiency and sustainability? How can robotics enhance human capabilities and transform industries? At MEAM, we challenge the limits of applied science and mechanical engineering to address these pivotal questions and inspire innovation.
From crafting renewable energy solutions to engineering cutting-edge robotics, we confront complex issues that shape our world. Whether tackling climate change, advancing healthcare technology, or revolutionizing manufacturing, our work is driven by the urgency to solve today’s pressing challenges.
MEAM graduates and researchers are at the forefront of transformative breakthroughs—designing smarter, energy-efficient transportation, advancing autonomous systems, and fostering innovation that drives a more sustainable and interconnected future.
Our students thrive with access to advanced facilities, cross-disciplinary collaborations, and robust global networks. At Penn MEAM, bold ideas are not just welcomed—they’re realized, equipping you to make an impact across diverse and evolving fields.
Building upon the fundamentals of mechanical design taught in MEAM 1010, this hands-on, project-based course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, analyze, manufacture. and test fully-functional mechanical systems. Topics covered include an introduction to machine elements, analysis of the mechanics of machining, manufacturing technology, precision fabrication (milling, turning, and computer-controlled machining), metrology, tolerances, cutting-tool fundamentals and engineering materials.
In many modern systems, mechanical elements are tightly coupled with electronic components and embedded computers. Mechatronics is the study of how these domains are interconnected, and this hands-on, project-based course provides an integrated introduction to the fundamental components within each of the three domains, including: mechanical elements (prototyping, materials, actuators and sensors, transmissions, and fundamental kinematics), electronics (basic circuits, filters, op amps, discrete logic, and interfacing with mechanical elements), and computing (interfacing with the analog world, microprocessor technology, basic control theory, and programming).
The selection of materials and manufacturing processes are critical in the design of mechanical systems. Material properties and manufacturing processes are often tightly linked, thus this course covers both topics in an integrated manner. The properties and manufacturing processes for a wide range of materials (i.e., metals, ceramics, polymers, composites ) are examined from both a fundamental and practical perspective. From a materials standpoint, the course focuses on mechanical properties, including modulus, strength, fracture, fatigue, wear, and creep. Established and emerging manufacturing processes will be discussed. Design-based case studies are used to illustrate the selection of materials and processes.
Senior Design is a two-semester “capstone” design project sequence required of all mechanical engineering students. During the fall semester, students form teams, choose a project and begin researching the topic. Typically, a prototype is created by the end of the semester. In the spring, teams iterate on their design and fabricate the final product, as well as produce a detailed, technical paper. In some cases, teams will pursue a research-oriented project that supplements the work of a Penn faculty member.
Our faculty members are dedicated to building up the next generation of engineers. In addition to being incredible mentors, they’re leading experts and researchers in their fields.
Area of Expertise: Understanding and designing materials that resist and adapt to fracture. Students Know Me For: Fostering creativity and emphasizing the power of data visualization in research. I want to make an impact in: Advancing materials that support tissue regeneration and manufacturing techniques that drive sustainability.
Area of expertise: Small-scale fluid mechanics and interfacial physics for water and sustainability.
Students know me for: My miniature bernedoodle dog, Bernoulli!
I want to make an impact in: Developing energy-efficient water and resource recovery systems.
