Abstract: According to embodiments of the present invention, a sensor for determining a flow parameter of a fluid is provided. The sensor includes a polymer membrane, an elongate microstructure extending from the polymer membrane, and a hydrogel coupled to at least a portion of the elongate microstructure, wherein the hydrogel and the elongate microstructure are arranged to cooperate to cause a displacement of the polymer membrane in response to a fluid flowing and interacting with the sensor, and wherein the sensor is configured to provide a measurement indicative of a flow parameter of the fluid based on the displacement of the polymer membrane. According to further embodiments of the present invention, a method for forming a sensor and a method of controlling a sensor are also provided.

Abstract: According to embodiments of the present invention, a sensor for determining a flow parameter of a fluid is provided. The sensor includes a polymer membrane, an elongate microstructure extending from the polymer membrane, and a hydrogel coupled to at least a portion of the elongate microstructure, wherein the hydrogel and the elongate microstructure are arranged to cooperate to cause a displacement of the polymer membrane in response to a fluid flowing and interacting with the sensor, and wherein the sensor is configured to provide a measurement indicative of a flow parameter of the fluid based on the displacement of the polymer membrane. According to further embodiments of the present invention, a method for forming a sensor and a method of controlling a sensor are also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing reduced drag on a body moving in a direction D through a selected fluid medium at a speed U which is normally sufficient to cause turbulence. Reduced drag is generally accomplished by flexing at least the outer surface of at least the rear third of the body to produce a wave-like motion of the body having a wavelength of between 0.5 and 2.0 times the length of the body, a reduced frequency value .OMEGA. between 0.1 and 0.5 and a time delay between successive points on the body reaching peaks for their flex motion which is directly proportional to the distance x.sub.i in the direction D of the point from a reference point on the body and inversely proportional to the phase speed c.sub.p of the wave. A variety of techniques are described for achieving the desired wave-like motion.