# Programmable Multifunctional Bistable Structures for Energy Transfer and Dissipation

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a new type of programmable structure that can efficiently transfer and dissipate energy, inspired by natural bistable systems.

## Contribution

The novel contribution is the development of asymmetric bistable beams with programmable motion for enhanced energy transfer and dissipation.

## Key findings

- A three-beam system made of polylactic acid can launch a sphere 35 times its diameter in height.
- The system's energy transfer efficiency is 41% higher than a single beam of the same geometry.
- The structure shows potential for applications like payload delivery, actuation, and shock absorption.

## Abstract

Bistable structures exhibiting snap‐through behavior are prevalent in nature, enabling rapid transitions between two stable states upon external stimuli. Considering such a process is accompanied by a dramatic energy conversion, here, a multifunctional bistable system composed of asymmetric bistable beams with programmable motion patterns is developed. Unlike symmetric bistable beams, the asymmetric bistable structures store greater strain energy while requiring lower activation force. The energy density of the system can be tuned by adjusting geometric parameters, type of material, and the number of beams incorporated. Experiments indicate that a three‐beam system manufactured from polylactic acid projects a sphere–comparable in weight to the beams–to a height 35 times its diameter, representing a 41% increase in energy transfer efficiency compared to a single beam of identical geometry. Leveraging the programmability and high energy conversion density features of the system, we showcase its versatility in applications including targeted payload delivery, rapid stimuli‐responsive actuation, and biomedical stents. Additionally, the capability of the system to dissipate impact energy is investigated, underscoring its potential for shock absorption.

Utilizing the energy conversion characteristics of asymmetric bistable beams, this study develops a programmable multifunctional system composed of multiple bistable beams for energy transfer and dissipation. The high energy density enables the system to demonstrate potential in transient scenarios such as target delivery and shock absorption.