Abstract
We consider the curling of an initially flat but naturally curved elastica on a hard, nonadhesive surface. Combining theory, simulations, and experiments, we find novel behavior, including a constant front velocity and a self-similar shape of the curl that scales in size as at long times after the release of one end of the elastica. The front velocity is selected by matching the self-similar solution with a roll of nearly constant curvature located near the free end.
- Received 7 February 2012
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.108.174302
© 2012 American Physical Society
Focus
Curling Physics Unraveled
Published 27 April 2012
Experiments and simulations lead to a new model for the curling of a thin strip, which could be useful for plant growth and micromechanics.
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