Exploring the limits of multifunctionality in adaptable networks: comparing flow networks to mechanical metamaterials

ORAL

Abstract

Previous work shows that spring networks are both adaptable and robust - via selective bond pruning, specific functions can be programmed precisely, efficiently and robustly [Rocks et. al., 2016, arXiv:1607.08562]. These functions include localized but long-range-correlated deformations reminiscent of allostery in proteins. Analogous functionality can be introduced into flow networks by controlling the current through a bond in response to a current applied elsewhere in the network. Here we explore the limits of multifunctionality. How many separate independent functions can be simultaneously tuned successfully into a network and how many different targets can be controlled by a single source? These questions can be classified as constraint-satisfaction problems that we study in both mechanical and flow networks.

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Authors

  • Jason W. Rocks

    University of Pennsylvania, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA

  • Henrik Ronellenfitsch

    Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA

  • Eleni Katifori

    University of Pennsylvania, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA

  • Andrea Liu

    University of Pennsylvania, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA, Department of Physics, University of Pennsylvania

  • Sidney R. Nagel

    The University of Chicago, University of Chicago, Department of Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA, James Franck Institute, Enrico Fermi Institute, and Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, USA, James Franck Institute, University of Chicago