A curvature-regularized variational problem with an area constraint

TL;DR

This work formulates a curvature-regularized variational problem for interlocking interfaces under an area constraint, modeling localized stress amplification as $J[f]=\int_{-a}^{a}(1+\gamma\kappa^2)\sqrt{1+f'^2}\,dx$ with $\kappa=\frac{f''}{(1+f'^2)^{3/2}}$ and $f\in W^{2,2}([-a,a])$. The authors prove existence of a minimizer within the admissible class and derive a nonlinear, fourth-order Euler–Lagrange equation with natural boundary conditions, showing that constant-curvature and polygonal profiles cannot be minimizers. Through a sequence of reductions, they establish that classical circular and polygonal interlocks are non-optimal under the area constraint, implying that optimal designs must feature spatially varying curvature. The results provide a rigorous justification for seeking nonclassical interlock geometries that distribute curvature—and hence stress—more effectively under curvature-sensitive energy considerations. This variational framework clarifies limitations of traditional designs and guides future material and geometry optimization under tight mechanical constraints.

Abstract

Interlocking interfaces are commonly employed to mitigate relative sliding under shear.Indeed, Their geometry is typically selected on grounds of fabrication convenience rather than analytical optimality. There is no reason to suppose that circular or polygonal profiles minimize localized stress concentration under fixed geometric constraints. We propose a variational model in which the interface is represented by a planar curve $y=f(x)$, and localized stress amplification is quantified by a curvature-sensitive functional \[ J[f] = \int_{-a}^{a} \bigl(1+γκ^2\bigr) \sqrt{1+f'(x)^2}\,dx, \] defined on the Sobolev space $W^{2,2}([-a,a])$. The functional is motivated by elasticity-theoretic considerations in which curvature enters the leading-order stress field near a singular interface.Indeed, any profile possessing discontinuous tangents yields a divergent integral, thereby rendering it energetically inadmissible within the Sobolev space $W^{2,2}$. An area constraint $\int_{-a}^{a} f(x)\,dx = A_0$ is imposed to model fixed material volume. Using the direct method of the calculus of variations, we establish the existence of a minimizer and derive the associated Euler--Lagrange equation, a nonlinear fourth-order boundary value problem. Note, however, that constant-curvature and piecewise-linear profiles fail to satisfy the necessary optimality conditions under the imposed constraint. Indeed, we are thus forced to conclude that analytical optimality necessitates a more complex variation in the local tangent angle The analysis indicates that commonly employed interlock geometries are not variationally optimal for minimizing localized shear stress within this class of admissible interfaces.

Theorems & Definitions (14)

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• lemma 1
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