Step inside the Experimental Engineering Lab (EEL) in the Department of Computer Science, one of UNC-Chapel Hill’s most unique research environments, and discover how researchers and students turn ambitious ideas into working technologies.
Locations and projects to be displayed:
- Room SN244, Robotics and Autonomous Vehicles: Biologically driven autonomous vehicles and PAWS, an assistive navigation robot.
- Room SN236, COMP 290 Course and the Machine Shop: Conversations with students and lessons on how fabrication and welding turn research ideas into working devices.
- Room FB241, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Holograms: Interactive showcases of boundary-aware redirected walking in virtual reality, mixed-reality motorcycle assembly training, and floating holographic displays.
- Room SN247, Fluids, Movement, and Perception: Demonstrations of finger-position optimization for swimming, a hand position tracking glove, and augmented aurality.
The Experimental Engineering Lab supports research that blends computing with hands-on engineering, providing access to spaces and tools rarely found within a computer science department, including machine shops, electronics fabrication facilities, rapid prototyping labs, wet labs, and specialized testing environments. Students and researchers use the lab to develop everything from robotics and virtual reality experiences to health technologies and environmental monitoring tools.
This is an in-person event.
As part of UNC Research Week and in partnership with Carolina Performing Arts, this open house invites UNC and Chapel Hill community members to explore the lab through 10+ demonstrations and conversations with Carolina researchers and students.
This “Open Laboratory” concept offers a preview of what attendees can experience at Carolina Performing Arts’ upcoming All. Together. Now. festival (February 19–21), which will bring together artists, scholars, and communities. Through interactive experiences and informal discussions, festival participants will discover how research, creativity, and collaboration can deepen our understanding of the world and inspire new possibilities for the future.
Whether you’re curious about emerging technologies, interested in the creative process, or simply looking for a behind-the-scenes look at research happening on campus, we invite you to participate in UNC Research Week by visiting the EEL Lab to experience innovation in action.
