Optimization metrics for the design of filament array-based linear force transducers

Dense, planar arrays consisting of molecular motors and their complementary filaments have been proposed for the bottom-up construction of a hybrid actuator. The following design metrics were established to quantify filament array quality defined as efficiency of force transduction along a single direction: number density, spatial distribution, orientation distribution. Theoretical models describing the inherent randomness involved in manipulating nanoscale filament structures were used to determine achievable optimums for each design metric. These optimization limits were then validated by analyzing fabricated unipolar filament arrays based on the microtubule-kinesin system.