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Future materials and structures
IRL is conducting research into the mechanics of solids and structures, emphasising applications of advanced materials such as elastic meta-materials, fibre-reinforced polymer composites and electro-active polymers. Our activities span a variety of industrial sectors including construction, marine, aerospace, defence, and domestic appliances.
Our projects include:
Acoustically efficient buildings
We are applying recent discoveries about the physics of wave propagation in meta-materials to the development of acoustic insulation systems. Read more >>
Advanced composite structures
We aim to develop means of predicting the mechanical response, and particularly the failure modes, of fibre-reinforced polymer composites in order to facilitate the design of applications by New Zealand industry. Read more >>
Live sculptures and soft machines
We are working with artists to make Maori art objects and patterns such as kowhaiwhai (painted designs) come alive using artificial muscles. Read more >>
Assistive devices
Our assistive technologies include hard and soft interfaces where mechanical engineering innovation meets human physiological requirements during the rehabilitation process. Read more >>