Using the uncertainty principle to design simple interactions for targeted self-assembly

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We present a method that systematically simplifies isotropic interactions designed for targeted self-assembly. The uncertainty principle is used to show that an optimal simplification is achieved by a combination of heat kernel smoothing and Gaussian screening. We use this method to design isotropic interactions for self-assembly of complex lattices and of materials with functional properties. The interactions we derive are significantly simpler than those previously published, and it is realistic to discuss explicit experimental implementation of the designed self-assembling components.