Incorporating Bio-Related Integrated Research in Undergraduate Kinematics of Mechanisms Course

Abstract

The paper describes part of our efforts to develop curricula specifically designed to challenge engineering students to cross boundaries and solve problems in different disciplines. Specifically, the paper discusses results of introducing faculty on-going research in the areas of human and protein kinematics into a junior mechanical engineering Kinematics of Mechanisms course, with the main goal of preparing the students to be critical thinkers, cross-disciplinary problem solvers and life-long learners. In the paper the term "integrated research" is used to refer to all categories of research involving integrated multiple disciplines. The Kinematics of Mechanisms is a lecture course which presents knowledge on the analysis, design and construction of mechanical systems, such as serial and parallel linkages, cams and gear systems and robot manipulators, to name a few. During the Fall 2016 semester, new experiences in the form of interactive activities, including research projects were developed and incorporated within the course. These activities were specifically designed to enhance the students' knowledge of how the above-mentioned mechanical systems appear in other domains, such as Biomechanics and Biochemistry with the goal of giving the students the opportunity to not only cross boundaries, but also integrate and use current knowledge in their own area to solve research problems in other disciplines.