The ASSE Group is involved in cutting-edge fundamental research in the general areas of:

Machine Learning for Structural Problem-Solving
Analysis of machine learning techniques applied to the structural health monitoring of aircraft and aerospace vehicles. Investigation of algorithms for damage identification, classification, and quantification, as well as for the prediction of remaining useful life. Development of smart structures by embedding sensors within materials during the manufacturing process. Specific focus on neural network architectures that ensure high accuracy by relying on experimental data without the need for complex numerical models, regardless of material properties or geometry.

Vibrational Analysis (Numerical and Experimental) for Non-Destructive Techniques / Structural Health Monitoring of Lightweight Structures
Analysis and development of Structural Health Monitoring methodologies for detecting and identifying unsafe operating conditions in metallic and composite aerospace structures through the use of vibrational mechanical waves. Investigation of baseline-free SHM strategies for the continuous monitoring of thin aerospace components, enabling timely warnings of unsafe conditions through real-time data gathering. Development of miniaturized hardware with integrated software, supported by a flying UAV laboratory designed for in-field testing and validation.

Advanced Analysis and Modeling of Plant Acoustic Responses
Investigation of acoustic responses in plants through a structured and multidisciplinary approach. Analysis of how vibrational stimuli and environmental noise influence plant development and organ formation by employing an advanced measurement system capable of monitoring physiological parameters during and after growth. Development of a 3D Finite Element model of the plant under study, including the characterization of its vibrational modes and its response to ambient noise. Validation of the model through laser vibrometry performed on real plants.

High-Performance Eco-Friendly Nasal Swab
Development of a novel swab for the collection and analysis of biological samples, designed to be efficient, user-friendly, and environmentally sustainable. Engineering of the swab head, consisting of a micro-structured polymer matrix optimized for sample uptake and release. Fabrication of a recyclable stick that can be coupled with the swab head and disassembled after use to enable proper recycling. Structured analysis of the technologies employed in the device’s production and their impact on the product life cycle and industrial process from both environmental and economic perspectives.

Dynamics of Flexible Aircraft in Aeronautical and Space Applications
Analysis of the dynamics of flexible aircraft and spacecraft, where deformation degrees of freedom influence the response to disturbances and control inputs. Development of reduced-order models for flexible aircraft and spacecraft, incorporating deformation degrees of freedom, along with a critical assessment of the significance of structural deformations for deriving models suitable for real-time simulations.

Innovative Solutions for Morphing Wing Structures
Investigation of bistable composites as morphing structures for movable aircraft surfaces, designed for energy efficiency. Analysis of aerodynamic loads acting on these structures to optimize the activation force required for the bistable composite through differential pressure along the wing profile. Experimental wind tunnel testing of bistable-based morphing structures, integrated into flap assemblies or other movable components of a small aircraft, with a test case conducted on a remotely piloted vehicle to evaluate discrete control of the horizontal tailplane during takeoff.

Power Harvesting Using Bistable Materials
Analysis of the vibration and flexibility of composite structural elements as a source of energy or deformation. Design of bistable composite devices effective over a wide frequency bandwidth, incorporating MFC sensors capable of generating energy through the snap-through phenomenon. Development of dynamic Finite Element models (including structure-fluid coupling) and experimental campaigns (aeroelastic tests) to investigate the snap-through mechanisms of bistable composite structures, with the aim of tailoring the system to maximize harvested energy.