In this white paper, Projectile Motion: Achieving Long Distance Aerial Delivery, we present quantitative data on MetaCORE demonstrating its ability to offer greater multi-directional energy absorption than current solutions. This pro-isotropic capability is comparable to cardboard honeycomb in terms of energy absorption, mass density, and cost, but provides greater predictability in variable landing conditions and high horizontal-velocity landings.
The issues with cardboard honeycomb
Air dropped payloads require impact-mitigating solutions to ensure cargo is delivered 100% mission capable. Current missions use cardboard honeycomb as an energy absorbing device to “soften” the landing. The operational envelope of cardboard directly constrains payload size, weight, drop times, horizontal glide distances, and speed. Future missions involving large horizontal glides are outside the operational envelope of cardboard honeycomb due to its poor shearing properties.
MetaCORE offers greater predictability and reliability
MetaCORE is an advanced material with isotropic energy absorbing properties that eliminates the 200% to 600% asymmetry in cardboard honeycomb’s material properties. It was developed by Multiscale Systems under a NASA SBIR Phase I/II contract as a lightweight low-cost material for non-defense aerospace and ground vehicle applications (est. ~$1Bn commercial market). With some modification to the existing manufacturing process, it would be an ideal energy absorber for vastly expanding airdrop operational envelopes. This is a dual-use technology with TRL 4 for aerial delivery applications.
Latest News
Multiscale Systems advances to the semi-finals of the Geothermal Manufacturing Prize
Winners of the Set! Stage of the American-Made Challenge's Geothermal Manufacturing Prize were announced on March 31, 2021. Multiscale Systems, along with nine other semi-finalists, will now move on to the Make! stage of the prize.
What are mechanical metamaterials?
How innovative geometric design can be used to create lightweight, multifunctional material systems without chemical or molecular modification.
Choose a metamaterial solution with our interactive Metamaterial Selector
We created an interactive tool that will take the guesswork out of selecting a metamaterial solution. Learn why we created it and what it can do for you, with a step-by-step example case study.
Worcester startup awarded prize for advanced materials innovation in hydropower
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) gives $175,000 to concepts supporting advanced manufacturing in hydroelectric sector.
Multiscale Systems wins I AM Hydro prize
Hydropower is a critical component in a more sustainable future. As climate change becomes more pressing, Multiscale Systems is making innovative solutions in the renewable energy sector.
Infographic: Making Mechanical Metamaterials
How do mechanical metamaterials get made? We’ve put together an infographic to answer just that question.