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Harnessing Oscillatory Dynamics for Reprogrammable Mechanical Functionality

delete2026-04-01
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PRE
AI
S
Sophie Monnery
G
Giada Risso
L
Loucas Plado Costante
A
A. J. Lazarus *
K
Katia Bertoldi *
DOI:10.1002/adfm.75229delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Achieving true mechanical reprogrammability — where structural functions can be dynamically defined, modified, and accessed on demand — requires the ability to arbitrarily set and alter the states of arrays of mechanical bits. Here, we introduce a new approach that accomplishes exactly this by exploiting asynchronous symmetry breaking in oscillator arrays driven by a single global actuator. Using an array of pendula as an experimental model, we show that intrinsic frequency separation enables arbitrary information writing and even makes possible the realization of a mechanical piano. Because the system is controlled exclusively through the timing of a global actuation signal, this strategy offers a scalable and efficient route toward reprogrammable matter, with applicability across elastic structures, chemical oscillators, and electronic circuits.
Keywords:
reprogrammable matter
mechanical bits
oscillator arrays
symmetry breaking
global actuation

Journal

Advanced Functional Materials cover
Advanced Functional Materials
IF:
19
Papers:
3.4W
Citations:
32.1W

Organization

H
harvard university
Scholars:
2.5K
Papers: 1.0K
Citations: 1
S
sorbonne université
Scholars:
86
Papers: 53
Citations: 0