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Education:
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, M.S. Mechanical Engineering, Expected Fall 2006
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, Expected Fall 2008
Brigham Young Univeristy, B.S. Mechanical Engineering, April 2003
Research Interests:
Fundamentally Michael's interests lie in the general areas of dynamics and design. He began his studies at the University of Michigan in the Mechanical Engineering Department's Compliant Systems Design Laboratory (CSDL) which specializes in designing mechanical systems that utilize the inherent elasticity of materials to create lighter, simpler and more robust systems. However, his interests in applying these engineering tools to the design of human locomotion assisting devices led him to begin working in the Human Neuromechanics Lab as well.
Michael's current work examines the neuromuscular response to springs placed in parallel with the knee joint. Combining this work with previous research on springs placed in parallel to the ankle joint and in series with the leg is expected to lead to the development of a comprehensive lower-body elastic exoskeleton. More generally it will provide insight into the development of a mathematical framework for incorporating compliant structures in the design of human assist systems. This research will benefit applications ranging from prosthetics and orthotics for people with disabilities to exoskeletons for combat soldiers.
Contact: mscherry@umich.edu
