Walter Franco

Walter Franco is a Full Professor at Politecnico di Torino in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMEAS), where he specializes in applied mechanics. He serves as a Member of the Coordinating Committee of the Politecnico University Centre for Social Affairs and participates in several international research committees, including IFToMM technical committees for Biomechanical Engineering and Sustainable Energy Systems.

His research focuses on interdisciplinary areas spanning:

• Appropriate technology and sustainable machine design
• Biomechanics and medical robotics
• Historical development of mechanisms and machines
• Fluid power systems and mechatronics
• Grassroots innovation for sustainable development

Professor Franco's publications demonstrate strong themes in sustainable mechanical design, biomechanical applications, and historical engineering analysis. His recent work frequently addresses the intersection of traditional mechanical engineering with contemporary sustainability challenges, particularly in human-powered systems and medical devices.

He has received numerous scientific awards including:

• Best Paper Award at IFIT 2016
• IHTC2017 First Prize in Technical Paper
• Springer Best Research Paper on History of Mechanisms (2019)
• Multiple best paper awards at IFToMM conferences (2018-2023)

Professor Franco leads research projects on hydraulic systems analysis and sustainable technologies, and has supervised PhD students working on exoskeletons and engineering heritage. He holds multiple patents in medical devices and mobility aids, including:

• Ankle-foot orthosis with 3D-printed components
• Stair-climbing wheelchair systems
• Pneumatic medical devices