Biologists and ecologists monitor wildlife to learn more about their behaviors, but tracking small creatures can be challenging, time-consuming and costly. Through a National Science Foundation grant, a multidisciplinary team at Northern Arizona University—led by Michael Shafer, associate professor of mechanical engineering; Carol Chambers, professor of wildlife ecology; and Paul Flikkema, professor of electrical engineering—has developed technology that could revolutionize the way this research is conducted through the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Better yet, the scientists are… Read more
Engineering
NAU mechanical engineer awarded multiple grants to improve wearable exoskeletons for people with movement disorders
Nearly four in 1,000 children are afflicted with cerebral palsy (CP), making it the most common cause of pediatric physical disability in the United States. This neurological disorder, typically caused by damage to the brain before birth, affects a child’s muscle control and coordination and often makes walking extremely difficult. What’s more, children… Read more