# CAREER: Optimal Design of Robust Nonlinear Elastic Metamaterials

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of California-Davis (CA) · $519,622

## Abstract

This project will develop computational tools for designing new classes of high-performance mechanical metamaterials. Mechanical metamaterials are elastic materials engineered at the microstructure level to exhibit unique properties not found in nature. They have the potential to unlock new levels of performance in application domains like soft robotics, deployable structures, athletic gear, and prosthetics. However, designing microstructure geometries to create desired material properties poses significant challenges, especially for applications where the structures can undergo substantial deformations and self contact. In these settings, computationally intensive nonlinear simulation models must be used, and designing materials with controlled properties over their full range of possible deformations is prohibitively expensive with existing algorithms. The core aim of this research is to develop computational techniques to dramatically accelerate the simulation and design process for elastic metamaterials, making it practical to solve this challenging and important design problem. The project will also develop techniques for ensuring that the optimized metamaterials are as durable as possible and can be reliably manufactured on consumer-level 3D printers. The project will furthermore enhance STEM education by integrating these cutting-edge research topics into classroom lectures and facilitating outreach events where high school, undergraduate, and graduate students gain ha

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2443973
- **Awardee organization:** University of California-Davis (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** TX2DAGQPENZ5
- **PI:** Francis J Panetta
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, Cyber-Human Systems
- **Estimated total:** $519,622
- **Funds obligated:** $299,039
- **Transaction type:** Continuing Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 05/31/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2443973

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2443973, CAREER: Optimal Design of Robust Nonlinear Elastic Metamaterials. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2443973. Licensed CC0.

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