Mechanics of filiform bodies (Q1116379)

Rods, jets and other filiform bodies are often represented by curves \({\mathcal C}\), which hint at their overall shape; finer details, essential for the discussion of important physical effects (the resistance to torsion, for instance), are usually described through a mapping of \({\mathcal C}\) into an appropriate space of additional parameters (e.g., a measure of twist, or of warping); for each choice of these parameters a different theory seems to emerge. Thus one may wonder if a unified treatment is at all possible; we think it can be achieved through the adaptation of a general theory of continua with microstructure. We pursue this matter here: we propose balance equations which are widely applicable, we show how they can be specialized to fit particular needs and hint at the way they can be used as points of departure for the exploration of new ground.