{"links":{"self":"http://dataportal.arc.gov.au/NCGP/API/grants/DE260100317"},"data":{"type":"grant-details","id":"DE260100317","attributes":{"code":"DE260100317","administering-organisation":"The University of Newcastle","announcement-administering-organisation":"The University of Newcastle","scheme-name":"Discovery Early Career Researcher Award","grant-status":"Active","funding-commencement-year":2026,"years-funded":3,"project-start-date":"2026-01-01","anticipated-end-date":"2028-12-31","grant-summary":"Nonlinear topology optimisation for stretchable mechanical structures. This project aims to develop a novel computational framework for design of stretchable mechanical structures with tailored, exceptional performance. It will address a critical methodological gap in “inverse design” of novel stretchable structures by advancing numerical modelling, data-driven, and optimisation approaches in a nonlinear regime. Expected outcomes include innovative design schemes and development of a new class of stretchable structures to meet increasingly complex functional demands. This could provide significant benefits for technical innovations in soft robotics, wearable technologies, biomedical devices, and energy-absorbing systems, enabling new applications across engineering disciplines.","funding-current":533409.00,"funding-at-announcement":529186,"investigators-current":[{"title":"Dr","firstName":"Chi","familyName":"Wu","roleName":"Discovery Early Career Researcher Award","roleCode":"DECRA","isFellowship":true,"orcidIdentifier":"0000-0001-6438-4902 "}],"investigators-at-announcement":[{"title":"Dr","firstName":"Chi","familyName":"Wu","roleName":"Discovery Early Career Researcher Award","roleCode":"DECRA","isFellowship":true,"orcidIdentifier":"0000-0001-6438-4902 "}],"organisations-current":[{"organisationName":"The University of Newcastle","roleName":"Administering Organisation","state":"NSW"}],"organisations-at-announcement":[{"organisationName":"The University of Newcastle","roleName":"Administering Organisation","state":"NSW"}],"field-of-research":[{"isPrimary":true,"code":"4017","name":"Mechanical Engineering","type":"FOR20"},{"isPrimary":false,"code":"401706","name":"Numerical Modelling and Mechanical Characterisation","type":"FOR20"},{"isPrimary":false,"code":"401707","name":"Solid Mechanics","type":"FOR20"}],"socio-economic-objective":[{"code":"280110","name":"Expanding Knowledge In Engineering","type":"SEO20"}],"international-collaboration":["Japan","United States of America"],"lief-register":[],"achievement-summary":null,"national-interest-test-statement":"High-performance structures play a crucial role in scientific discovery and technological innovation. Among them, stretchable structures, capable of undergoing large deformations while maintaining structural integrity, have unique mechanical properties that could transform industries such as electronics, manufacturing, and safety. However, growing demand for stretchable structures with sophisticated performance beyond naturally available methods has been hindered by costly and inefficient trial-and-error design processes. Addressing this challenge is essential to sustaining Australia’s leadership in these high-impact and emerging sectors. This project aims to develop new design approaches to enable more efficient and effective creation of stretchable structures While focused on fundamental methodologies, its applications span soft robotics, flexible electronics, stretchable lithium-ion batteries, protective systems, wearable monitors, and soft implants. Findings will be widely disseminated through social media, seminars, and outreach activities. This project aligns with the “Future Made in Australia” strategy, strengthening Australia’s expertise in computational modelling, smart manufacturing, and advanced materials and structures. It will support long-term industrial growth, position Australia as a global leader in technological advancements, and deliver lasting national benefits."}}}