What if you could 3D-print custom surgical tools to fit the needs of individual patients? That's the idea behind David Cappelleri's flexible micro-robotic tools, being developed for minimally invasive spinal surgery. Thanks to Stratasys 3D printers, Cappelleri can print super-small precise tools -- simultaneously with multiple materials, both rigid and flexible.

A new technology developed by Purdue researchers could provide an “instantly rechargeable” battery, through a quick and easy process similar to refueling a car at a gas station. The team includes Eric Nauman, professor of mechanical engineering.

Dr. Beth M. Holloway has been selected as a Fellow Member of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). Holloway is Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Education, Director of the Women in Engineering Program, and an Assistant Professor (by courtesy) in the School of Mechanical Engineering. She will be recognized nationally on June 28 at the ASSE Annual Awards Luncheon in Columbus, Ohio.

A team of mechanical engineering researchers at Purdue University has developed a drone that can open and close doors, flip switches, and attach sensors to walls. Called the Boomcopter, it is designed to perform tasks in environments that would be dangerous or inaccessible to humans.

The Formula SAE series challenges Purdue engineers to design and build a formula-style race car, from scratch, every year. Student teams are responsible for the chassis, powertrain, electronics, and aerodynamics, as well as the business side of budgets and sponsorships. The final challenge is an endurance race with 100 other colleges at Michigan International Speedway.

Dr. James Greenleaf (MSES '66, Ph.D. '70) always wanted to be an engineer, but also enjoyed working in medicine. He ended up with the best of both worlds: a career at the Mayo Clinic teaching biomedical engineering. He also heads Mayo's Ultrasound Imaging Lab, pioneering new methods of using ultrasound to diagnose and treat diseases. Dr. Greenleaf received Purdue's Distinguished Engineering Alumni award in 2017.

Congratulations to Baratunde Cola, a PurdueME PhD, who received the Waterman Award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), recognizing outstanding researchers under 35. Baratunde works in nanotechnology, pioneering a method of using carbon nanotubes as antennas to capture light, potentially delivering a much more efficient method of delivering solar energy.

A team of Purdue engineers has created the FirePUP, a three-wheeled vehicle designed to serve as a firefighting engine in Africa. In addition to pumping 200 gallons of water, the FirePUP can travel over all terrains, a necessity for areas in Africa that have few paved roads.

The first ever Mechanical Engineering Photo Contest showcased the artistic skills of Purdue ME staff, faculty, and students.

Several Purdue ME faculty members have received promotions to full professor, in addition to other awards. Here's a breakdown.