ME 438
Constructal Theory and Design
Adrian BejanNotable faculty
Developed the constructal law; author of Design in Nature. Source
Why it's on my list
Constructal theory, taught by Adrian Bejan, who developed it.
My note, not Duke's.
Description from DukeHub
Flow configuration in nature and engineering emerges from the constructal law of increase of flow access in time, when the flow system is endowed with freedom to morph. The course brings together the basic principles of fluid mechanics, heat transfer and thermodynamics, and teaches how to generate (to 'discover') shape and structure for energy flow systems. The course teaches design as science, and presents a paradigm that is applicable across the board, from engineering to biology, geophysics and social dynamics.
Skills
- designtitle: "design"
AI-resilient: 1 of 5
- No: Physical, lab or field work
- No: Live work with people
- Yes: Judgment someone is accountable for · "law"
- No: A craft you practice with your hands or body
- No: Small, in-person format
The checks lean on Microsoft Research, Working with AI (2025), which found generative AI applies least to physical work and hands-on work with people. A signal, not a promise. How the score works
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