JOURNEY TOWARDS ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE (1963 to 2025)

“Mechanical Engineering is one of the oldest and most fundamental branches of engineering, often referred to as the “mother of all engineering disciplines”

Rashtreeya Vidyalaya College of Engineering (RVCE), Bengaluru, was founded in 1963 by Sri M.C. Shivananda Sharma under RSST. A premier institution, it began with three engineering branches such as Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering & Electrical Engineering and is known for excellence in education, research, and innovation in engineering and technology.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at RV College of Engineering, Bengaluru, established in 1963, is one of the oldest and most prestigious departments. It has played a pivotal role in the institution’s history and is renowned for academic excellence, research, and industry collaborations. The department offers a four-year B.E. in Mechanical Engineering and M.Tech programs in Product Design & Manufacturing (36 intake) and Machine Design (18 intake), both spanning two years. Additionally, it provides MS (by Research) & Ph.D. programs with research opportunities in Materials, Design, and Mechatronics. With a strong legacy, the department continues to foster innovation and contribute to engineering advancements.

Department Establishment:

Although the Mechanical Engineering Department initially started in the Trust office, the construction of the RVCE campus building continued for two years. In 1965, the department moved to the newly constructed Humanity Block. However, the laboratories were established in stages across separate blocks. Testing facilities, power supply, and water facilities were efficiently arranged in the new labs. Initially, the department focused on both teaching and practical training. The faculty members, united in their efforts, dedicated their knowledge and skills to enhancing the quality of engineering graduates and elevating the standard of education at Bengaluru University. Additionally, the department conducted ITI training programs for technical staff before regularizing their positions. 

Research Endeavours:

The establishment of the Center for Manufacturing, Research, and Technology Utilization (CMRTU) at RVCE marked a significant milestone as the first such center in the institution, recognized by Mysore University. It provided a platform for in-house and external students to pursue Master’s and Ph.D. degrees, promoting research and academic growth. The center fostered industry-academia collaboration through projects and consultancy. Equipped with state-of-the-art research facilities, it led to numerous publications and projects. Many faculty members earned Ph.D. degrees, enhancing the center’s credibility. The strategic relocation of humanity departments optimized space for technical departments, improving infrastructure and strengthening RVCE’s focus on research and innovation.

Empowering Research and Community Development:

The department at RVCE has experienced remarkable growth over the years. In 1995, the intake was increased to 120 seats, reflecting the growing demand for its programs. In 1999, the department was established as a Research Center under VTU, offering Doctoral Studies and MSc. Engg by Research, marking the start of its advanced academic and research initiatives. The department introduced the M.Tech in PDM program with an intake of 18 and saw its student team, ASHWA RACING, participate in global Formula SAE events, showcasing its focus on hands-on learning and innovation.

With support from national funding agencies like ISRO, DST, CSIR, and others, the department’s research efforts led to the development of over 100 materials used in various industries, including defense, aerospace, and automotive. These contributions also empowered marginalized youth to publish research internationally, helping them secure jobs in reputable organizations.

Academic Research Advancements:

The department has continually expanded its programs to meet industry demands. In 2004, it introduced the M.Tech. in PDM with 18 seats, increasing to 36 by 2011. Other programs followed, including M.Tech. in CIM, Machine Design, and Tool Engineering. Over the years, 35 Ph.D.s were awarded under the Research Center, with 22 more since 2015, and 53 students currently pursuing their doctoral research. The department has secured support for prestigious projects, such as the Nationally Coordinated Project, Industry Institute Partnership Cell, Entrepreneurship Management Development Cell, Nanomission by DST, Skill Development Projects, and the Solar Mission, showcasing its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Students consistently showcase their talent at international events, earning awards for projects like Chimera, Krushi, Ashwa Racing Car, All Terrain Vehicle, Hybrid Car, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, and Solar Car, further establishing the department’s reputation in research and innovation. The B.E. in Mechanical Engineering program at RVCE has achieved multiple accreditation milestones. Initially accredited in 2000 for three years, it was reaccredited in 2003 and 2008 for five years, and again in 2014 for three years under the NBA’s new format.

Advanced Learning and Research Integration:

The department has achieved significant milestones in accreditation and research. The BE program was accredited in 2018 for three years, extended by one additional year, and reaccredited in 2023 for six years. The M.Tech. in PDM was accredited in 2018 for three years, reaccredited in 2019, and is set to be reaccredited in 2024. The M.Tech. in Machine Design was accredited in 2018 for two years, with reaccreditation scheduled for 2024. The department has published over 300 papers in international journals and completed 135 sponsored projects. Several key initiatives have enhanced student skills and fostered stronger industry-academic ties. The Ready Engineer Programme by Tata Technologies focuses on automotive component design and manufacturing. The RVCE–Bosch Rexroth Centre for Competence offers specialized training in Automation, Hydraulics, and Pneumatics. The RVCE–Benz Center for Automotive Mechatronics offers an Advanced Diploma in Automotive Mechatronics, and the RV-Automation and Robotics – RV-FANUC initiative provides training in Automation and Robotics. The department was accredited by the National Skill Development Corporation in 2023, offering Industrial Automation Specialist training under the PMKVY scheme.

Volvo established a Processing Lab, training 30 students, all of whom secured placements at top companies like Boeing and Airbus. The department has seen remarkable participation in NPTEL, with 1721 certifications and 292 toppers from 2015 to 2024. In 2020, the BE Honors program was launched, offering students with 8.5+ CGPA and 18 NPTEL credits the chance to graduate with honors. The department has been involved in international outreach, including collaborations with FHWS, FHD, THR, and RWTH, providing students with global exposure. 

Notable alumni include Manasa Bhat (MIT), Likhitha Ramesh Reddy (Delft University of Technology), Indra Roy (IIT Hyderabad), and Payal Shetty (Germany). Female student admissions have increased significantly due to the department’s focus on mentorship and training. The department maintains MoUs with leading organizations such as Bosch Rexroth, Wipro, IISc, TE Connectivity, MG Vector, Fanuc, Toyota, Kennametal, TATA Technologies, Volvo, and Eco Enterprises. The department has also established new student chapters, including the ASM International – RVCE Materials Advantage Student Chapter, the ASME Student Chapter, and the Council of Vibration Specialists Student Chapter. These chapters provide opportunities for specialized learning, research, and networking, further enhancing students’ academic and professional growth.