Research

The Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering has research programs in applied operations research, information engineering, advanced manufacturing systems and ergonomics.

Faculty in applied operations research conduct research on quantitative models that can provide new insights into the behavior of complex systems, identify areas where significant improvements can be made in system performance, and provide a basis for effective decision making. Quantitative models include mathematical and computer models based on principles of simulation, optimization, probability, and statistics.

Information engineering research is focused on enhancing the decision making process through knowledge discovery methods and information modeling that helps us understand how information is used within an enterprise. Faculty working in this area conduct research related to data mining, experimental design, decision theory, and statistical analysis.

Advanced manufacturing research includes the investigation of new production methods for advanced products, studying process parameters of new processes, and understanding the interaction of processes in an advanced manufacturing systems. Current IMSE efforts in this area include rapid manufacturing systems, advanced metrology and inspection, control and automation systems, and industrial energy efficiency.

Ergonomics is the application of our understanding of the capabilities and limitations of human beings in the design of the workplace and consumer items. Current emphasis in IMSE is in the area of physical ergonomics with a particular focus on prevention of low back injury and hand/wrist disorders such as tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.