Mechanical Engineering
 

Brian Fabien - Professor
Associate Chair for Infrastructure

Columbia University (PhD 1990)
Systems, Dynamics and Design

Courses

ME 474A: Systems Modeling and Simulation

Contact Information

Office: MEB 206
Phone: 206-543-6915
Fax: 206-685-8047
Email: fabien@u.washington.edu

Biography

Professor Fabien joined the University of Washington in 1993, after teaching for three years at Ohio University.

Professor Fabien's research interests include the kinematics of mechanisms, dynamic system analysis and optimization, as well as control system design. In 1993, Professor Fabien received a Presidential Faculty Fellowship award from the National Science Foundation.

Professor Fabien is also involved with the Dynamic Systems Modeling and Controls Laboratory.

Dr. Fabien was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship in 1997 to perform research and teaching at the University of the West Indies, Trinidad.

Current Research Projects

Dynamic System Optimization:

This research area focuses on developing a suite of computational tools for the solution of real world engineering problems in mechanism, and control system design. Algorithms for parameter optimization and dynamic optimization have been developed.

Nonlinear Control of Maglev Devices:

This research deals with the application of modern control theory to electromagnetic levitation devices. Emphasis is placed on experimental validation of some feedback linearizing and adaptive controllers. Specific applications include electromagnetic suspensions and electromechanical energy storage devices.

Discrete-time Learning Control:

Here the goal is to develop and implement a new control theory that improves the efficiency and accuracy of machine tools that perform repetitive tasks.

Publications

B. C. Fabien, "A Technique for the Direct Optimization of Dynamic Systems Described by Differential-Algebraic Equations," Proceedings of the IMECE 2007, IMECE2007-42679, 2007.

R. Leuschke and B. C. Fabien, "Disturbance attenuation using a DC motor for radial force actuation in a rotordynamic system," ASME Journal of Dynamic Systems, Measurement and Control, Vol. 127, pp. 804-812, 2007.

B. C. Fabien, "The influence of failure criteria on the design optimization of stacked-ply composite flywheels," Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization, Vol. 33, pp. 507-517, 2007.