Nonlinear geometric effects in mechanical bistable morphing structures

Zi Chen, Qiaohang Guo, Carmel Majidi, Wenzhe Chen, David J. Srolovitz, Mikko P. Haataja

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

128 Scopus citations

Abstract

Bistable structures associated with nonlinear deformation behavior, exemplified by the Venus flytrap and slap bracelet, can switch between different functional shapes upon actuation. Despite numerous efforts in modeling such large deformation behavior of shells, the roles of mechanical and nonlinear geometric effects on bistability remain elusive. We demonstrate, through both theoretical analysis and tabletop experiments, that two dimensionless parameters control bistability. Our work classifies the conditions for bistability, and extends the large deformation theory of plates and shells.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number114302
JournalPhysical review letters
Volume109
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 14 2012

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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