Bistable Quad-Nets Composed of Four-Bar Linkages

Abstract

We study a novel type of mechanical structures, composed of spatial four-bar linkages, that are bistable, that is, they allow for two distinct configurations. These structures have an interpretation as quad nets in the Study quadric which we use to prove existence of assemblies with an unbounded number of links and joints. We propose a purely geometric construction of such objects, starting from infinitesimally flexible quad nets in Euclidean space and applying Whiteley de-averaging. This point of view situates the problem within the broader framework of discrete differential geometry and enables the construction of bistable structures from well-known classes of quad nets, such as discrete minimal surfaces. In contrast to many other construction methods for bistable structures, our approach does not rely on numerical optimization and it allows for simple control of relevant geometric parameters such as axis positions and snap angles.