As a result of legislative statutes, environmental requirements and financial considerations, the demand for products and the elements from which they are composed is increasing. One example is the need to reduce exhaust from internal combustion engines. Another is the need for vehicles and other constructions to be lighter, to emit less noise and to be safer for both passengers and the environment.

Activities at the department enable progress towards meeting these demands. Because activities essentially concentrate on development and implementation of models and methods that are engaged within a considerable number of industrial applications, the department's efforts also contribute towards reducing the time consumed when developing new products.

The department’s expansive field of activities demands a wide scope of knowledge. Activities can be separated into divisions that are theoretical and practical, and also, into portions that cover model construction and empirical studies. Research surrounding the fundamental sciences deals with improved understanding and freshly acquired knowledge that relates to basic phenomena. Research covering the more applied subjects commences from statements of situations that are more closely identified with industry.

Research and education are mainly conducted within the areas of fluid dynamics, multiphase flow, internal combustion engine technology, structural dynamics, solid mechanics, materials engineering, wave propagation, mechanical systems, biomechanics, algorithm development and calculating techniques. To a large extent, our arsenals of methodology and modelling either overlap or complement the various scientific disciplines. With an extensive panorama of theoretical and experimental activities, occasions frequently arise at the department for creative collaboration. Furthermore, from a systems perspective, there are ample opportunities for mutual efforts within numerous areas of applications. Examples include vehicular technology, biomechanics, engine mechanics, aero acoustics, railway mechanics, vehicular aerodynamics, vehicular dynamics and, also, vehicular safety - in which topics for scientific studies can examine medical and behavioural aspects.

Head of department: Per Lövsund