Mechanism of self-propulsion in 3D-printed active granular particles. (24th November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Koumakis, N; Gnoli, A; Maggi, C; Puglisi, A; Leonardo, R Di
• Is Part Of: New journal of physics. Volume 18:Number 11(2016:Nov.)
• Publication Date: 2016-11-24
• Subjects: active matter -- granular propulsion -- 3D printing; Physics -- Periodicals; Physics; Periodicals; 530.05
• DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/18/11/113046
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1367-2630

Abstract

Abstract: Active granular particles can harness unbiased mechanical vibrations in the environment to generate directed motion. We provide a theoretical framework that connects the geometrical shape of a three dimensional object to its self-propulsion characteristics over a vertically vibrated plate. We find that a maximally efficient propulsion is achieved for structures having tilted flexible legs forming a characteristic angle with the vertical. Our predictions are verified by experimental observations on a class of 3D printed structures with smoothly varying geometrical features.