New York Journal of Mathematics
Volume 17 (2011) 445-490

  

J. C. Owen and S. C. Power

Infinite bar-joint frameworks, crystals and operator theory

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Published: August 11, 2011
Keywords: Infinite bar-joint framework, vanishing flexibility, rigidity operator
Subject: 52C25, 47N50

Abstract
A theory of flexibility and rigidity is developed for general infinite bar-joint frameworks (G,p). Determinations of nondeformability through vanishing flexibility are obtained as well as sufficient conditions for deformability. Forms of infinitesimal flexibility are defined in terms of the operator theory of the associated infinite rigidity matrix R(G,p). The matricial symbol function of an abstract crystal framework is introduced, being the multi-variable matrix-valued function on the d-torus representing R(G,p) as a Hilbert space operator. The symbol function is related to infinitesimal flexibility, deformability and isostaticity. Various generic abstract crystal frameworks which are in Maxwellian equilibrium, such as certain 4-regular planar frameworks, are proven to be square-summably infinitesimally rigid as well as smoothly deformable in infinitely many ways. The symbol function of a three-dimensional crystal framework determines the infinitesimal wave flexes in models for the low energy vibrational modes (RUMs) in material crystals. For crystal frameworks with inversion symmetry it is shown that the RUMS generally appear in surfaces, generalising a result of F. Wegner [35] for tetrahedral crystals.

Author information

J. C. Owen:
D-Cubed, Siemens PLM Software, Park House, Castle Park, Cambridge UK
owen.john.ext@siemens.com

S. C. Power:
Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom LA1 4YF
s.power@lancaster.ac.uk