Flexible Flexoelectric Rods
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Flexoelectricity is quite a well-known phenomenon wherein strain gradients, like bending, produce electric polarization. Such flexoelectric effects become highly relevant under large deformations, particularly in slender structures, such as rods. To model large deformations in one-dimensional structures, existing flexoelectric beam theories are not capable of modeling large rotations and displacements of the cross-section. In this work, we will systematically develop a flexible flexoelectric rod theory using special Cosserat rods and discuss analytical and numerical implementation. Using the developed flexoelectric special Cosserat rod theory, we will explore several applications, such as soft robotic grippers, metamaterials, and follower load sensors. We will also analyze the stability criterion for such slender rods.
