PanOptimization
Develops PanX, a finite element-based AM process simulation and optimization solver that predicts and actively improves print outcomes for geometrically complex parts.
- CEO / Founder
- Pan Michaleris
- Team Size
- 1-10
- Stage
- Active
- Total Funding
- $324.8K
- Latest Round
- Grant
- Key Investors
- National Science Foundation; Ben Franklin Technology Partners
Technology & Products
Key Products
PanX
Technological Advantage
Founded by the technical authorities who developed the industry's first commercial AM simulation tools (Netfabb Simulation); PanX handles complexity and scale better than legacy FEA systems.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Eliminates costly trial-and-error builds by providing high-accuracy simulation and adjoint-based optimization for extreme geometric complexity at any scale.
How They Differentiate
Offers superior simulation accuracy and optimization speed for complex geometries compared to incumbents like Autodesk Netfabb, leveraging the expertise of the original Netfabb Simulation creators.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Aerospace, defense, and biomedical manufacturers using LPBF and DED processes.
Industry Verticals
Aerospace; Defense; Biomedical; Automotive
Competitors
Autodesk; Ansys; Hexagon
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
PanOptimization is a self-funded, profitable startup that does not accept outside investment. As of June 2024, the company maintains a lean 'elite' team of 3 employees (Pan Michaleris, Erik Denlinger, and Tyler Nelson). Growth is driven by licensing revenue from its PanX software across aerospace, defense, and biomedical sectors. Key growth milestones include a major partnership with Xact Metal (announced September 2024) to integrate PanX into affordable metal AM systems and collaborations with Velo3D. The company has also secured software licensing contracts with academic institutions, such as the University of Oklahoma ($55,000–$75,000 range).
Major Milestones
Acquisition of previous company Pan Computing by Autodesk (2016); Founding of PanOptimization (2021); Partnership with Synera for marketplace integration (2024)
Notable Customers
Velo3D; Xact Metal; Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL); Lockheed Martin Corporation; University of Oklahoma; Department of the Navy (NSWC Carderock Division)