Mathematical Modeling of Light-Powered Self-Adhesion of Peeling Strips via Abrupt Transition

Dali Ge (), Shenshen Wei and Yanli Hu
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Dali Ge: School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
Shenshen Wei: School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
Yanli Hu: School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China

Mathematics, 2025, vol. 13, issue 21, 1-29

Abstract: Self-oscillating systems convert steady external stimuli into sustained motion, enabling diverse applications in robotics, energy absorption, optics, and logic. Inspired by the adhesion–detachment behavior of climbing plants, we propose a novel light-powered self-adhesion oscillator comprising an elastic strip–substrate structure and a weight suspended by a photo-responsive liquid crystal elastomer fiber. By integrating a nonlinear beam deformation model with Dugdale’s cohesive model, we develop a nonlinear dynamic framework to describe the self-adhesion behavior of the elastic strip. Quasi-static analysis reveals two distinct operating modes: a static mode and a self-adhesion mode. Under constant light exposure, the liquid crystal elastomer fiber undergoes light-induced contraction, increasing peeling force and triggering a sudden transition from adhesion-on to adhesion-off. Upon entering the adhesion-off state, the fiber recovers its contraction, leading to a sharp return to the adhesion-on state. This cycle sustains a four-stage oscillation: gradual peeling, abrupt adhesion-off, gradual adhering, and abrupt adhesion-on. Furthermore, we identify the critical conditions for initiating self-adhesion and demonstrate effective control over the oscillation period. The system exhibits key advantages including amplitude controllable oscillation, widely tunable frequency, well-defined motion trajectories, and structural simplicity. These characteristics suggest promising potential for applications in self-healing adhesion systems, rescue devices, military engineering, and beyond.

Keywords: interface cohesive; self-oscillation; liquid crystal elastomers; optically responsive; adhesion–detachment mechanism (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: C (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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