About

Professor Diann Brei is a faculty member in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan. She holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Arizona State University (1993) and a B.S.E. in Computer Systems Engineering from Arizona State University (1988). Her research interests encompass design, smart materials and structures, sensor and actuator design, structural dynamics, vibration and noise control, mechatronics, and smart mechanisms. Her work focuses on advancing technologies related to adaptive structures, smart materials, and their applications in automotive and transportation systems. Throughout her career, Professor Brei has received numerous honors and awards, including the 2022 ASME Machine Design Award, the 2019 SSM Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2018 ASME Adaptive Structures & Materials Award. She has been recognized for her significant contributions to engineering sciences and her leadership within the professional community. In 2018, she was named the chair of the division Integrative Systems + Design at the University of Michigan. Her professional achievements also include election to the National Academy of Inventors as a Senior Member in 2026, and she has been actively involved in mentoring and service within the engineering society, notably receiving the Rackham Master’s Mentoring Award in 2018 and the ASME Dedicated Service Award in 2011.

Research topics

• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Mechanical engineering
• Structural engineering
• Sociology
• Political Science
• Pedagogy
• Computer graphics (images)
• World Wide Web
• Physics
• Simulation
• Public relations
• Business
• Engineering management

Selected publications

• Adaptable Tile‐Based Pneumatic Origami through Structurally Coupled Localized Actuation

  Advanced Engineering Materials · 2026-01-23

  articleOpen accessSenior author

  Actuated origami systems offer adaptable properties including morphing shape, selective multistability, and tunable stiffness. Typically, these systems activate all creases uniformly or control each structural degree of freedom independently, limiting shape mode variety and the ability to independently tune some properties while keeping others constant. This article explores structurally coupled localized actuation using redundant actuators at each crease, leveraging origami's inherent structural coupling to achieve adaptable properties in versatile shape modes with independent tunability. A tile‐based pneumatic system implements origami structures with rigid tile facets and flexible fabric creases. Independently activated inflation bladders along each crease provide pressure‐scalable local torques and stiffness. Using a Miura pattern, morphing shape is achieved in three distinct shape modes with selective monostability or multistability based on activated creases and applied pressures. The local actuator is analytically modeled and integrated into a physics network structural model to simulate the adaptable properties numerically, validated experimentally. Supported by these models, independently tuning tiffness at constant shape, and selective multistability while maintaining both shape and stiffness are achieved through structurally coupled actuation of multiple creases. This structurally coupled localized actuation approach opens new opportunities for adaptable properties with expansive shape modes and independent tunability within an integrated origami system.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Fabric logic library: A framework for integrated mechanical circuitry in smart pneumatic fabrics

  Journal of Intelligent Material Systems and Structures · 2026-04-02

  articleSenior author

  This paper introduces a framework for a pneumatic logic library to support integrated mechanical circuitry within Smart Pneumatic Fabrics. Smart Pneumatic Fabrics consist of multiple layers, each engineered with distinct patterning to form pneumatic logic components—such as porous cotton resistors, laminated channels with cross-layer vias, pouch capacitors, and kink-threshold channels. For each basic component in the library, logic models are developed using first principles with key parameters identified experimentally: (1) porous resistors are described by Darcy–Forchheimer flow behavior, (2) channel–via resistance is characterized by weak length and strong width dependence, (3) pouch capacitor response is mapped via a three-regime pressure–mass relationship, integrating pressure–volume measurements with the ideal gas law, and (4) kink-valve threshold channels exhibit linearly varying pressure thresholds with inlet pressure and quantifiable hysteresis. The library’s modularity enables the synthesis of compound components for complex pneumatic circuits. Demonstrating this approach, a three-stage ring oscillator using pneumatic transistor compound components was designed with Simscape™, fabricated via a masked heat-sealing process, and validated experimentally, confirming predictable oscillator frequency with in-situ adjustable oscillation frequency. This library framework advances the systematic creation and integration of sophisticated, electronics-free control logic in Smart Pneumatic Fabrics for next-generation wearables and soft robotic systems.

  PublisherDOI

• Adaptive Impact Response of Coupled Tendon Constrained Inflatables for Occupant Safety in Future Mobility

  Journal of Mechanisms and Robotics · 2026-01-07

  article

  Abstract The transition to autonomous vehicles poses a challenge for occupant safety devices during a collision due to the large variation in the direction and location of passenger impacts. A new technological approach is presented that offers adaptive impact response (i.e., trajectory control, energy absorption, and peak acceleration reduction) for diverse impact scenarios through a deployable smart wall based on tendon constrained inflatables (TCIs). The wall comprises coupled TCI cells, each comprising an inflatable bladder with rigid end caps connected by inextensible tendons, which act similar to a linkage mechanism. The tendon configuration determines each cell's deployment position and impact-activated motions, enabling different motions depending on the impact location and angle. Collaboratively, the coupled TCI cells provide adaptive impact response to enhance occupant safety in future mobility. The TCI cells are designed for independent and collaborative motions based on analytical methods. Experimental characterization of a four-TCI row demonstrates that their energy absorption and peak acceleration reduction capabilities remain consistent regardless of impact variations—showing a maximum improvement of 128% in energy absorption and a 50% reduction in peak acceleration compared to an inflatable bag. Moreover, the TCI row effectively redirects impacts to be perpendicular to the row, further enhancing safety.

  PublisherDOI

• Analytical Planar Design of Multiaxial Rigid Load-Bearing Tendon-Constrained Inflatables

  Journal of Mechanical Design · 2025-03-11 · 2 citations

  articleSenior author

  Abstract Deployable load-bearing structures are useful for confined or temporary settings due to their stowability and deployability. Designing these structures involves balancing package dimensions with load-bearing capacity—defined as the maximum load under which a structure can maintain rigidity or the load above which a structure deforms. This challenge is further complicated when considering load-bearing capacities in different directions. Tendon-constrained inflatables (TCIs) offer a promising solution with its design flexibility using internal tendon configurations. TCIs feature a deployable bladder held between rigid end caps which are connected internally by inextensible tendons. A TCI maintains rigidity up to its rigid load-bearing (RLB) capacity, at which some tendons become slack. The RLB capacities can be customized in different directions depending on the tendon configuration. This article introduces a model-based design approach of a TCI's tendon configuration to trade-off RLB capacities in different directions and against package dimensions. A 3D kineto-static equilibrium model is developed to relate tendon configuration to six-dimensional RLB capacities. Visual design strategies for planar tendon configurations guide the customization of TCIs to specific package dimensions and loading scenarios. Experimental validation of the model enables TCIs, an emerging adaptive structure, to be useful for a broad range of applications.

  PublisherDOI

• Anisotropic Rigid Load-Bearing Threshold Design of Tendon-Constrained Inflatables

  Journal of Mechanical Design · 2025-09-22

  articleSenior author

  Abstract Tendon-constrained inflatables (TCIs), composed of inflatable bladder and internal tendons, provide rigid load-bearing (RLB) with high stiffness up to predefined thresholds based on the input pressure and tendon configuration. At loads above these thresholds, select tendons become slack and enable deformation. Engineered arrangements of tendons in spatial configurations enable customizable anisotropic RLB thresholds in six dimensions. This customizability is useful for applications that require complex load thresholds like mobility aids that need to provide specific rigidity thresholds in different directions before deforming to act as safety mechanisms. However, the design of the anisotropic RLB thresholds is challenging because the RLB thresholds in different directions are coupled and trade-off with other design factors like package size, number of tendons, and input pressure. This article presents a comprehensive model-based design optimization of spatial TCI's six-dimensional anisotropic RLB thresholds including discussion of various design objectives, parameters, and load requirements. A design process including visualizations of the normalized RLB region and a two-step optimization scheme is developed to guide the negotiation of the large and complex design space of TCIs. A case study on a wheelchair headrest interface is presented using the design process to provide rigid support during rest and motion when viewing sideways under user-specific head loads while minimizing pressure. The established scientific foundation supports the design of customizable, six-dimensional RLB TCI for complex load requirements.

  PublisherDOI

• Parametric Model-Based Design of Moldable Active Cargo Blankets Using Internally Tiled Pneumatic Surfaces

  ASME Open Journal of Engineering · 2025-01-01 · 1 citations

  articleOpen access

  Abstract Securing and transporting cargo is common in vehicles of all types; however, the current cargo retention approaches (e.g., cargo nets, storage bins, and elastic cords) do not always provide adequate constraint to keep items securely in place while driving. One promising approach is to employ internally tiled pneumatic surface technology to design a moldable active cargo blanket, which can be draped over target objects, shaped into myriad forms, and rigidized on demand to ensure that the cargo items are effectively constrained. This article introduces a model-based approach for systematically designing pneumatically activated moldable active cargo blankets, providing tailorable moldability performance to cater to different vehicle segments, styles, and/or intended customer experiences. The architecture of moldable active cargo blankets comprises layers of low-profile and uniformly distributed rigid tiles within an airtight bladder, enabling transition from soft to rigid states as a function of vacuum pressure applied, providing moldability technology capability, which can be decomposed into three key technology subcapabilities: drapability, shapability, and rigidizability. The performance of each subcapability can be quantified in its respective operation states, draping, shaping, and rigidizing, by developing multiple engineering performance metrics characterizing each state. A half-factorial design-of-experiment investigating the relationship between the tile array design variables on these quantifiable metrics is conducted. A predictive modeling approach using empirical data to understand the mechanically complex behavior of moldable active cargo blanket is developed, relating tile array design variables to performance outcomes. This enables an algebraic tailoring method for selecting a specific set of tile array design variable values to balance the tradeoffs among metrics to obtain intended design outcomes, which is demonstrated through three distinct design contexts. The work in this article provides the enabling basis for the moldable active cargo blanket application as well as a more general technology basis on moldability.

  PublisherDOI

• Experimental Architectural Design Study on Internally Tiled Pneumatic Surfaces for Adaptive Moldability

  ASME Open Journal of Engineering · 2025-01-01 · 1 citations

  articleOpen access

  Abstract This article explores adaptive moldable surfaces capable of passively conforming to varying shapes, activating to rigidly hold the shape or object, and then resetting back to a passive condition applicable in myriad industries. While various approaches have been demonstrated for designing adaptive moldable surfaces using traditional and smart materials technologies, promising advancements have been made in pneumatically activated systems utilizing granular, fiber, and layer jamming techniques. Unfortunately, these advanced pneumatic systems struggle simultaneously providing good performance across all three key technology subcapabilities (drapability, shapability, and rigidizability) in a compact, conformable, and lightweight form. In recent years, pneumatically operated tile-based approaches have emerged, offering various design advantages dependent on the characteristics of the tile architectures that address these challenges. However, the broad design space of tile-based approach presents coupled tradeoffs among the resulting performances of the key technology subcapabilities. This article systematically explores these tradeoffs, focusing on bladder-attached, internal sheet-attached, and mutually interlocking tile classes. It defines and characterizes measurable performance metrics: draping angle for drapability, conformability and setability for shapability, and flexural rigidity and post-yield elasticity for rigidizability. Three studies investigate the architectural design space: tile architectural class effects, design coupling tradeoffs, and architectural feature variations such as shifting tile layers and adding friction layers. These studies develop an understanding of the coupled impacts of architectural class and features on the performance of internally tiled pneumatic surfaces, catering to the design of user-interacting adaptive moldability applications.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Antagonistic actuation of hinged tile-based curling air surface for advanced functionalities

  2023-04-28

  article
  PublisherDOI

• Modeling and Design of Hinged Tile-Based Curling Air Surface for Morphing Windshield Cowling

  ASME Open Journal of Engineering · 2023-01-01 · 2 citations

  articleOpen access

  Abstract The gap between the windshield and hood allows windshield wipers to operate, but causes problems gathering leaves and snow. Active morphing approaches provide an opportunity to create a windshield cowling that addresses this issue by covering the gap normally and actively curling out of the way to allow wiper operation. Most existing morphing techniques lack simultaneous large force/stroke generation, cannot perform two-way actuation, or fail to rigidly hold their position against varying loads such as wind. This article studies a novel curling air surface based on hinged T-shaped tiles that improve upon existing technologies by adding straightening actuation to out-of-plane curling with large force and deflection, while also holding position rigidly. Through vacuuming an upper curling bladder enclosing the tiles and inflating lower straightening bladders spanning the hinge lines, the air surface uncovers and covers the gap against wind loads and holds its curled position rigidly using inter-tile hard stops. An analytical surface model aggregated from multiple instances of a first principle unit curling model predicts the air surface performance. This model includes additional kinematic effects, extending the range of applicability, and additional bladder effect phenomenological terms to improve accuracy. The model is validated across scales and enables design space visualization, which is applied to design a windshield cowling. The resulting design is validated and demonstrated in a full-scale prototype. This article provides the technology concept, supporting model, and design approach to broadly apply this useful air surface to other morphing applications.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• A BOUNDARY OBJECT FOR MAPPING, COMPARING, AND INTEGRATING PRODUCT DESIGN METHODS

  Proceedings of the Design Society · 2023-06-19 · 1 citations

  articleOpen access

  Abstract There are innumerable design methods that exist across a wide spectrum of disciplines, ranging from engineering, to marketing, to psychology. However, the organic, multidisciplinary nature of methodological development in design leads to challenges in comparing or combining methods. Disciplinary perspectives can create conceptual 'boundaries' that may not align with the fluidity of the problems that designers may need to address. It is challenging to work between the boundaries of these design methods due to the unclear delimitation of exactly where and how methods may be integrated. Nomenclature is unstandardized and different terminologies may describe similar phenomena. To address this, a boundary object—the Actor-Abstraction matrix—is developed to recontextualize each of these divergent methods onto a common scale so they may be better understood in reference to their peers. A meta-analysis of four established design methods is performed to demonstrate the flexibility of this conceptual device. With this tool, existing design methods may be more easily examined to identify points of compatibility and gaps in their coverage, and could also serve as a powerful platform for the creation of new design methods in the future.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

Frequent coauthors

• Jonathan Luntz

  University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

  125 shared

• Paul W. Alexander

  General Motors (United States)

  47 shared

• Nancy L. Johnson

  Imperial College London

  29 shared

• John W. Halloran

  25 shared

• Alan L. Browne

  23 shared

• Daniel H. Teitelbaum

  University of Toronto

  21 shared

• Brent Utter

  Lafayette College

  20 shared

• Wonhee Kim

  18 shared

Awards & honors

• Ted Kennedy Family Team Excellence Award, College of Enginee…
• Dedicated Service Award, American Society of Mechanical Engi…
• Associate Fellow, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astr…
• Best Paper (Enabling Technology and Integrated Systems Sympo…
• Hartwell Award (team with D. Teielbaurm and J. Luntz) (2008)