Christopher A. Brown

Christopher A. Brown is a Professor in Mechanical & Materials Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) with joint appointment as Professor of Biomedical Engineering. He directs the Surface Metrology Lab, Sports Engineering Lab, and Haas Technical Education Center for CNC machining.

Education:

• PhD Mechanical Engineering, University of Vermont (1983)
• MS Mechanical Engineering, University of Vermont (1979)
• BA Political Science, University of Vermont (1975)

Research spans surface metrology, axiomatic design, sports engineering, and Industry 5.0 implementations for SMEs. His work connects material science with practical applications in biomechanics and manufacturing systems. Current projects focus on friction dynamics in winter sports equipment and sustainable design methodologies.

Publications demonstrate expertise in multiscale surface characterization, with recent emphasis on sports engineering applications and sustainable manufacturing. Research often crosses disciplinary boundaries between mechanical engineering, materials science, and industrial design.

Awards and Honors:

• Fellow of ASME (2005)
• International Director of SME (2001-2005)
• Multiple patents in sports equipment and measurement devices
• Championship skier with All-American honors

Advises numerous graduate students across mechanical engineering, manufacturing systems, and biomedical engineering. Secured multiple patents for innovations in ski bindings, impact-absorbing footwear, and metrology devices.

Leads interdisciplinary teams in sports engineering research collaborating with industry partners and international institutions including EPFL (Switzerland) and ETH Zurich.