Dr. Michael Triantafyllou

Professor

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Biography

Michael Triantafyllou is the Henry L. Grace Doherty Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He specializes in experimental fluid mechanics and biomimetics with a focus on the development of biologically inspired sensors and robotic systems. His research has led to significant advancements in the fields of dynamics control and flow-structure interaction, particularly in regards to ocean vehicles. Triantafyllou has directed the MIT Sea Grant and has been involved in numerous projects emphasizing the importance of understanding fluid mechanics as it relates to marine technologies. He has authored and co-authored various publications, including a highlight paper on trout swimming vortices in Science and articles in renowned engineering journals. His innovative work in the field of robotic tuna has garnered international recognition, leading to static exhibits in prestigious science museums. Over the years, he has received multiple awards, including the Aurel Stodola Medal and has held notable academic positions worldwide, which further emphasizes his commitment to advancing marine engineering education and research.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Cambridge, Massachusetts

Teaching various courses on design principles for ocean vehicles and related research activities.

Awards

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Fellow

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Aurel Stodola Medal Lecture

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William Koch Professor Marine Technology

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Technological Innovation

Patents

Buoy Minimal Motion Characteristics

U.S. Patent 4,768,984 1988-09-06

Propulsion Mechanism Employing Flapping Foils

U.S. Patent 5,401,196 1995-03-28

Method and Apparatus for Reducing Drag on a Moving Body

U.S. Patent 5,740,750 1998-04-21

Human Powered Marine Vehicle and Method of Operation Thereof

U.S. Patent 5,997,369 1999-12-07

A liquid crystal polymer membrane MEMS sensor for flow rate and flow direction sensing, medical and environmental applications

Provisional patent Application 61/541,232

Sensor, Method for forming and controlling the same

International Publication Number WO 2014/107139 A1 2014-07-10

Bio-inspired nanofibril encapsulated hydrogel cupulae ultra-sensitive MEMS flow sensor development

Provisional patent Application 61/748,184

Ultrasensitive Self-Powered PDVF Nanofiber Strain Sensors

Provisional patent Application 2015-01-07