Joint Colloquium: Waves of transition and equilibria in chains and lattices from bistable elements

2006-04-07

3:00 p.m. Neill Hall 5W

Andrej Cherkaev

Abstract: In this talk We consider dynamics of structures from bistable elements. These structures are able to store and then release the energy of an impact, creating waves of phase transition and energy absorption by distributing a "partial damage" over a large area of the structure. They also quickly transform the impact energy into high-frequency dissipative modes. We analytically describe waves of damage(transition) and multiple equilibria in partially damaged chains and lattices,conditions of propagation and controllability of these waves, and an adequate "dynamic homogenization." Based on the joint work with Leonid Slepyan, Elena Cherkaev, and Liya Zornitskaya.