Viswanathan Vimal

Dr. Viswanathan Vimal is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at San José State University (SJSU), where he serves as Director of the Innovations in Design Engineering & Analyses (IDEA) Lab and Faculty Advisor for multiple student organizations including ASME, Spartan Racing, and Spartan Hyperloop.

• Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2012
• MS, Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2010
• B-Tech, Mechanical Engineering, NIT Calicut, India, 2005

His research focuses on design theory & methodology, design creativity, design automation, and additive manufacturing, with applications in assistive devices, energy harvesting systems, and engineering education. Recent work explores AI-driven design processes, 4D printing technologies, and virtual learning environments.

Selected Trends: 15 recent publications demonstrate expertise in rehabilitation device design, sustainable product development, and intelligent tutoring systems. Key methodologies include BERT-based NLP, vibration-assisted 3D printing, and cognitive-based design frameworks.

Scientific Recognition

• Distinguished Article (2016): Most cited paper in International Journal of Design Creativity and Innovation

Academic Leadership: Former Department Chair (2021-2023) and Assistant Professor at SJSU (2016-2020), Tuskegee University (2014-2016), and Georgia Tech (2012-2014). Supervised numerous student-led projects resulting in 2 patents and 35+ peer-reviewed publications.