Kenji Shimada

Kenji Shimada is the Theodore Ahrens Professor of Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University's Department of Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on geometric computing, mesh generation, and advanced manufacturing technologies, particularly in additive manufacturing, robotics, and biomedical applications. He leads projects in autonomous drone navigation, custom-fit medical devices, and virtual factory simulations. Shimada's work bridges computational engineering with practical industry needs, emphasizing design efficiency and cost reduction.

Education: Ph.D. (MIT, 1993), M.S. and B.S. (University of Tokyo, 1985/1983). Affiliations include the Engineering Research Accelerator and NextManufacturing Center.

Research interests encompass robotics (aerial/medical), computational geometry, bioengineering, and generative manufacturing. His Bubble Mesh method revolutionizes mesh generation for FEM/BEM analysis. Collaborations with YKK AP and clinical trials highlight his translational research impact.

Recent projects include drone navigation in dynamic environments, soft tissue measurement devices for CPAP masks, and AI-driven construction safety monitoring. Media mentions highlight innovations like the Moldable Mask and autonomous window installation robots.

Grants and industry partnerships fund his work, with a focus on robotics, medical devices, and advanced manufacturing. Advising emphasizes student-led innovation in surgical training tools and additive manufacturing applications.