Publication

Elasto-magnetic instabilities for amplified actuation and mechanical memory

2026

Abstract

Instabilities can generate fast and amplified motion in mechanical systems. Here, we present an elasto-magnetic instability that combines magnetic attraction and elastic tension to create bistable dynamics. To demonstrate this, we built a coupled elasto-magnetic vibration system that produces amplified motion and greater displacement and force than a control system across a wide frequency range. We also establish design principles that can be applied to different configurations by studying the balance between magnetic and elastic forces. The system also shows inertial hysteresis, which enables mechanical memory by storing external inputs in volatile and non-volatile modes with adjustable thresholds. This dual function of amplification and memory shows how instabilities can be potentially used for programmable and adaptive soft actuation.

Official source

https://infoscience.epfl.ch/entities/publication/9e7c0eb4-7681-4a74-86f9-a02546ebc9f5

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2026

Abstract

Official source

https://infoscience.epfl.ch/entities/publication/9e7c0eb4-7681-4a74-86f9-a02546ebc9f5

About this result

Related concepts (32)

Memory

Memory is the faculty of the mind by which data or information is encoded, stored, and retrieved when needed. It is the retention of information over time for the purpose of influencing future action. If past events could not be remembered, it would be impossible for language, relationships, or personal identity to develop. Memory loss is usually described as forgetfulness or amnesia. Memory is often understood as an informational processing system with explicit and implicit functioning that is made up of a sensory processor, short-term (or working) memory, and long-term memory.

Non-volatile memory

Non-volatile memory (NVM) or non-volatile storage is a type of computer memory that can retain stored information even after power is removed. In contrast, volatile memory needs constant power in order to retain data. Non-volatile memory typically refers to storage in semiconductor memory chips, which store data in floating-gate memory cells consisting of floating-gate MOSFETs (metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors), including flash memory storage such as NAND flash and solid-state drives (SSD).

Random-access memory

Random-access memory (RAM; ræm) is a form of computer memory that can be read and changed in any order, typically used to store working data and machine code. A random-access memory device allows data items to be read or written in almost the same amount of time irrespective of the physical location of data inside the memory, in contrast with other direct-access data storage media (such as hard disks, CD-RWs, DVD-RWs and the older magnetic tapes and drum memory), where the time required to read and write data items varies significantly depending on their physical locations on the recording medium, due to mechanical limitations such as media rotation speeds and arm movement.

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Elasto-magnetic instabilities for amplified actuation and mechanical memory

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