CAREER: Harnessing the Dynamic Functions of Irregular Structural Patterns

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $668,788 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The Faculty Early Career Development Program (CAREER) grant supports research that advances fundamental knowledge of the dynamics of segmented structural designs with irregular patterns, thereby promoting the progress of science, and advancing prosperity and welfare. Current bio-inspired engineering primarily emphasizes optimizing regular geometric patterns that are ordered, periodic, and repeated, overlooking the intrinsic geometric irregularities found in nature. This approach misses the opportunities presented by the ubiquitous and intrinsic geometric irregularities of living organisms. This project will attempt to address this critical gap by developing the required engineering models for identifying and applying distinctive irregular patterns to design structures to match the range of functions and energy- and material-efficiency of biological systems. Potential applications include energy harvesting, intelligent actuation and control in vehicles, smart shock absorption, vibration damping, and acoustic attenuation. Drawing inspiration from the musculoskeletal patterns in diving seabirds and stingrays, the new findings plan to yield transformative technological solutions to achieve efficient multifunctional structures. Additionally, the project will develop a user-friendly, open-source application to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and make these concepts accessible to scientists, engineers, and the public. This app will help translate insights from biological

Key facts

NSF award ID
2440838
Awardee
University of Washington (WA)
SAM.gov UEI
HD1WMN6945W6
PI
Ed Habtour
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Dynamical systems, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev
Estimated total
$668,788
Funds obligated
$668,788
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
06/15/2025 → 05/31/2030