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Reconfiguration of a smart surface using heteroclinic connections
Jiaying Zhang1, Colin R McInnes2, Ming Xu3
1Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XJ, UK; School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.
Proceedings. Mathematical, Physical, and Engineering Sciences
|March 8, 2017
Summary
This study introduces a smart surface model capable of energy-efficient reconfiguration between unstable states. This novel approach requires zero net energy input for transitions, unlike traditional methods.
Area of Science:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Nonlinear Dynamics
Background:
- Smart surfaces offer dynamic shape-changing capabilities.
- Reconfiguration often requires significant energy input.
- Understanding energy landscapes is crucial for efficient control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a reconfigurable smart surface model with multiple equilibria.
- To investigate an energy-efficient reconfiguration scheme.
- To explore transitions between equal-energy unstable states.
Main Methods:
- Modeling the smart surface using discrete point masses and linear springs with geometric nonlinearity.
- Analyzing energy landscapes and potential barriers.
- Investigating heteroclinic connections in phase space.
Main Results:
- A smart surface model with multiple equilibria was developed.
- An energy-efficient reconfiguration scheme was identified.
- Transitions between equal-energy unstable states were shown to require zero net energy input.
- Heteroclinic connections were established in the phase space.
Conclusions:
- The developed smart surface model enables energy-efficient reconfiguration.
- The model serves as a unit module for scalable smart surface systems.
- This approach offers a pathway for advanced adaptive material systems.
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