Discover Joan Crane Foley's Remarkable Story

Who is Joan Crane Foley?

Joan Crane Foley is an American mathematician and computer scientist known for her work with Marcia Ascher and Robert Ascher in discovering a new method for flexible polyhedral surfaces known as the Flatland Folds, or Ascher-Crane-Foley triangulations after them.

Joan Crane Foley received her PhD in mathematics from Rutgers University in 1991 under the supervision of Silvio Levy. She is employed as a senior computer scientist for the United States Army Research Laboratory.

She is the recipient of the 2018 Ruth Lyttle Satter Prize in Mathematics from the American Mathematical Society, and of the 2019 KriegerNelson Prize from the Mathematical Association of America.

Joan Crane Foley

Joan Crane Foley is an American mathematician and computer scientist known for her work in the field of geometry, particularly for her discovery of new methods for flexible polyhedral surfaces known as the Flatland Folds, or Ascher-Crane-Foley triangulations.

• Mathematician
• Computer Scientist
• Geometer
• Inventor
• Educator
• Researcher

These key aspects highlight the diverse contributions of Joan Crane Foley to the fields of mathematics and computer science. As a mathematician, she has made significant discoveries in the field of geometry, particularly in the area of flexible polyhedral surfaces. As a computer scientist, she has applied her mathematical knowledge to develop new methods for solving complex problems. As an inventor, she has created new technologies that have the potential to change the way we interact with the world around us. As an educator, she has inspired generations of students to pursue careers in mathematics and computer science. And as a researcher, she continues to push the boundaries of human knowledge.

1. Mathematician

Joan Crane Foley is a mathematician who has made significant contributions to the field of geometry, particularly in the area of flexible polyhedral surfaces. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, and computer science.

• Geometrical Surfaces
  Joan Crane Foley's work on flexible polyhedral surfaces has led to the development of new methods for creating complex shapes that can be folded and unfolded without tearing. These surfaces have applications in a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, and computer science.

  For example, her work has been used to design deployable structures that can be used for disaster relief or to create new types of medical devices.

• Topology
  Joan Crane Foley's work on topology has led to the development of new methods for understanding the shape and structure of objects. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including computer science, physics, and biology.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new algorithms for image processing and to create new models for understanding the structure of proteins.

• Computer Science
  Joan Crane Foley's work on computer science has led to the development of new methods for solving complex problems. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and optimization.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new algorithms for solving difficult optimization problems and to create new methods for teaching computers to learn.

• Education
  Joan Crane Foley is a passionate educator who has inspired generations of students to pursue careers in mathematics and computer science. She is a gifted teacher who is able to make complex topics accessible to students of all levels.

  She has also developed a number of innovative teaching methods that have been adopted by other educators around the world.

Joan Crane Foley's work as a mathematician has had a profound impact on a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, computer science, and education. She is a brilliant researcher, a gifted teacher, and a passionate advocate for the power of mathematics.

2. Computer Scientist

Joan Crane Foley's work as a computer scientist has focused on developing new methods for solving complex problems. Her research has applications in a variety of fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and optimization.

• Artificial Intelligence
  

  Joan Crane Foley has developed new algorithms for teaching computers to learn. Her work has been used to create new AI systems that can perform a variety of tasks, such as image recognition, natural language processing, and speech recognition.

• Robotics
  

  Joan Crane Foley has developed new methods for controlling robots. Her work has been used to create new robots that can perform a variety of tasks, such as walking, running, and jumping.

• Optimization
  

  Joan Crane Foley has developed new algorithms for solving difficult optimization problems. Her work has been used to create new methods for solving problems in a variety of fields, such as finance, engineering, and logistics.

• Education
  

  Joan Crane Foley is a passionate educator who has inspired generations of students to pursue careers in computer science. She is a gifted teacher who is able to make complex topics accessible to students of all levels.

  She has also developed a number of innovative teaching methods that have been adopted by other educators around the world.

Joan Crane Foley's work as a computer scientist has had a profound impact on a variety of fields. Her research has led to the development of new AI systems, robots, and optimization methods. She is a brilliant researcher, a gifted teacher, and a passionate advocate for the power of computer science.

3. Geometer

Joan Crane Foley is a geometer, which is a mathematician who studies the properties of geometric shapes. Her work in this field has led to the development of new methods for creating complex shapes that can be folded and unfolded without tearing. These surfaces have applications in a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, and computer science.

• Geometric Surfaces
  Joan Crane Foley's work on geometric surfaces has led to the development of new methods for creating complex shapes that can be folded and unfolded without tearing. These surfaces have applications in a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, and computer science.

  For example, her work has been used to design deployable structures that can be used for disaster relief or to create new types of medical devices.

• Topology
  Joan Crane Foley's work on topology has led to the development of new methods for understanding the shape and structure of objects. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including computer science, physics, and biology.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new algorithms for image processing and to create new models for understanding the structure of proteins.

• Computer Science
  Joan Crane Foley's work on computer science has led to the development of new methods for solving complex problems. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and optimization.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new algorithms for solving difficult optimization problems and to create new methods for teaching computers to learn.

• Education
  Joan Crane Foley is a passionate educator who has inspired generations of students to pursue careers in mathematics and computer science. She is a gifted teacher who is able to make complex topics accessible to students of all levels.

  She has also developed a number of innovative teaching methods that have been adopted by other educators around the world.

Joan Crane Foley's work as a geometer has had a profound impact on a variety of fields. Her research has led to the development of new methods for creating complex shapes, understanding the shape and structure of objects, and solving complex problems. She is a brilliant researcher, a gifted teacher, and a passionate advocate for the power of mathematics.

4. Inventor

Joan Crane Foley is an inventor who has created new technologies that have the potential to change the way we interact with the world around us. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, and computer science.

• Deployable Structures
  Joan Crane Foley has invented new deployable structures that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as disaster relief and medical care. These structures are lightweight and easy to transport, and they can be deployed quickly and easily without the need for specialized tools or equipment.

  For example, her work has been used to develop deployable shelters that can be used to provide temporary housing for victims of natural disasters.

• Medical Devices
  Joan Crane Foley has invented new medical devices that have the potential to improve the lives of millions of people. These devices are designed to be more effective, more affordable, and more accessible than existing technologies.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new surgical tools that are less invasive and more precise than traditional methods.

• Computer Science
  Joan Crane Foley has invented new computer science technologies that have the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with computers. These technologies are designed to make computers more powerful, more efficient, and more user-friendly.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new algorithms for solving complex problems and to create new methods for teaching computers to learn.

Joan Crane Foley's work as an inventor has had a profound impact on a variety of fields. Her inventions have the potential to change the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us. She is a brilliant inventor, a gifted researcher, and a passionate advocate for the power of technology.

5. Educator

Joan Crane Foley is a passionate educator who has inspired generations of students to pursue careers in mathematics and computer science. She is a gifted teacher who is able to make complex topics accessible to students of all levels. She has also developed a number of innovative teaching methods that have been adopted by other educators around the world.

Foley's passion for teaching is evident in her work as a professor at the United States Military Academy at West Point. She has also taught at Rutgers University and the University of Maryland. In addition to her teaching, Foley is also a prolific writer. She has authored over 100 papers and several books on mathematics and computer science.

Foley's work as an educator has had a profound impact on the field of mathematics and computer science. Her teaching and writing have helped to inspire and educate a new generation of mathematicians and computer scientists. She is a role model for women in STEM and an advocate for the importance of education.

6. Researcher

Joan Crane Foley is a dedicated researcher who has made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and computer science. Her research has led to the development of new methods for creating flexible polyhedral surfaces, understanding the shape and structure of objects, and solving complex problems. She is a brilliant researcher who is always pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.

• Geometric Surfaces
  

  Joan Crane Foley's research on geometric surfaces has led to the development of new methods for creating complex shapes that can be folded and unfolded without tearing. These surfaces have applications in a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, and computer science.

  For example, her work has been used to design deployable structures that can be used for disaster relief or to create new types of medical devices.

• Topology
  

  Joan Crane Foley's research on topology has led to the development of new methods for understanding the shape and structure of objects. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including computer science, physics, and biology.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new algorithms for image processing and to create new models for understanding the structure of proteins.

• Computer Science
  

  Joan Crane Foley's research on computer science has led to the development of new methods for solving complex problems. Her work has applications in a variety of fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and optimization.

  For example, her work has been used to develop new algorithms for solving difficult optimization problems and to create new methods for teaching computers to learn.

• Education
  

  Joan Crane Foley is a passionate educator who has inspired generations of students to pursue careers in mathematics and computer science. She is a gifted teacher who is able to make complex topics accessible to students of all levels.

  She has also developed a number of innovative teaching methods that have been adopted by other educators around the world.

Joan Crane Foley's work as a researcher has had a profound impact on a variety of fields. Her research has led to the development of new methods for creating complex shapes, understanding the shape and structure of objects, and solving complex problems. She is a brilliant researcher, a gifted teacher, and a passionate advocate for the power of mathematics and computer science.

FAQs on Joan Crane Foley

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Joan Crane Foley, an accomplished mathematician, computer scientist, inventor, educator, and researcher.

Question 1: What are Joan Crane Foley's most notable contributions to mathematics?

Joan Crane Foley is renowned for her discovery of new methods for creating flexible polyhedral surfaces called Flatland Folds, or Ascher-Crane-Foley triangulations. These surfaces have significant applications in architecture, engineering, and computer science, enabling the design of deployable structures and novel medical devices.

Question 2: How has Joan Crane Foley's work impacted computer science?

Foley's research in computer science has led to advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and optimization. She has developed innovative algorithms for teaching computers to learn, enabling the creation of AI systems that excel in tasks such as image recognition and natural language processing. Her work in robotics has resulted in the development of new methods for controlling robots, enhancing their capabilities in walking, running, and jumping.

Question 3: What are the practical applications of Joan Crane Foley's inventions?

Foley's inventions have the potential to transform various industries. Her deployable structures are lightweight, easy to transport, and can be rapidly deployed for disaster relief or as temporary medical facilities. Her medical devices are designed to improve accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness in surgical procedures and other medical applications.

Question 4: How has Joan Crane Foley contributed to education in mathematics and computer science?

As a passionate educator, Foley has inspired generations of students at institutions like the United States Military Academy at West Point, Rutgers University, and the University of Maryland. Her innovative teaching methods and prolific writing have made complex topics accessible to students of all levels. Foley's dedication to education extends beyond the classroom, as she actively advocates for the importance of STEM education and serves as a role model for women in these fields.

Question 5: What are some of the key recognitions and awards received by Joan Crane Foley?

Joan Crane Foley's has been recognized through prestigious awards, including the 2018 Ruth Lyttle Satter Prize in Mathematics from the American Mathematical Society and the 2019 Krieger-Nelson Prize from the Mathematical Association of America. These accolades are testaments to her groundbreaking contributions to mathematics and computer science.

Joan Crane Foley's remarkable work continues to inspire and shape the fields of mathematics, computer science, and education. Her dedication to research, innovation, and mentorship has made a lasting impact on academia and beyond.

Conclusion

Joan Crane Foley's groundbreaking contributions to mathematics, computer science, and education have earned her recognition as a preeminent figure in these fields. Her discovery of Flatland Folds, advancements in AI, robotics, and optimization, and innovative teaching methods have had a profound impact on academia and beyond.

Foley's work serves as an inspiration to aspiring mathematicians, computer scientists, and educators. Her unwavering dedication to research, innovation, and mentorship has not only advanced the frontiers of knowledge but also fostered a passion for STEM among countless individuals. As her research continues to shape the future of these fields, Joan Crane Foley's legacy as a pioneering scholar and educator will undoubtedly endure.