Visual Design and Engineering Lab

We are a dynamic research group at the Mechanical Engineering Department at Carnegie Mellon University. Our research develops novel AI and machine learning approaches for engineering design, simulation, and manufacturing. By integrating generative models, state-of-the-art learning paradigms, and real-time sensing, we aim to enable faster, more accurate, and more resilient engineering systems. Our focus is on technologies that improve design, process monitoring, manufacturability, performance, and overall innovation in a wide range of industries.

To this end, our research focuses on generating new algorithmic and methodological knowledge, all demonstrated and validated through computational software. Our research projects are centered around the following core foundations and applications:

Core Foundations             Applications
  • AI / ML
    • Regression
    • Deep Learning
    • Generative AI
  • Engineering Analysis and Synthesis
    • Optimization
    • Generative Design
    • Solid Mechanics
    • Physics Simulations
    • FEA / Meshing
  • Geometric Modeling
    • Shape Modeling
    • Shape Processing
           
  • CAD / Shape Design
  • Topology Optimization
  • Additive Manufacturing
  • Design Theory and Methodology
  • Integrated Circuit Design
  • Bio-engineering
  • Fuel Cell Design
  • Air Quality Monitoring



Our research has been funded by:

News

August 2025

A long-overdue update of this site is finally underway.

August 2025

We presented two papers at this year's IDETC, and Prof. Kara gave an invited talk at the workshop on 'From Data to Design: Challenges and Opportunities across Industry and Academia'

August 2025

Kevin, Dan, Ray all successfully defended their PhD theses! Congratulations!

December 2024

Prof. Kara gave an invited talk at Istanbul Technical University's Cavit Citak Technology seminar series.

August 2024

Congratulations Tong, Wentai, and Haiguang on your very well deserved PhDs!

May 2022

We are presenting four papers at IDETC-DAC 2022. Check out our publications page!

April 2022

Prof. Kara gave a talk at the Toronto Geometry Colloquium.

September 2021

Hongrui (Ray) Chen joined VDEL as new PhD students. Welcome to VDEL!

January 2021

Haolin Liu joined VDEL as new PhD students. Welcome to VDEL!

... see all News