Evolving convex curves (Q1272700)

In this detailed paper, the author considers the behaviour of convex curves undergoing a curvature-driven motion. This means that there exists a family of embeddings \(x_t:\gamma\to\gamma_t\subset \mathbb{R}^2\) of a fixed curve \(\gamma\) satisfying an evolution equation of the form \((d/dt)x_t=-Fn\), where \(n\) is the outward normal direction and \(F=F(\kappa,n)\) is a smooth speed function depending on the curvature \(\kappa\) and, in the anisotropic case, on the outward unit normal \(n\). Results are obtained for expanding flows and for contracting flows as well. In most cases, \(F\) is assumed to be either homogeneous of degree \(\alpha\neq 0\), i.e., \(F=(1/\alpha)\Psi(n)\kappa^\alpha\), where \(\Psi\) is a positive smooth function defined on \(S^1\), or \(F\) is isotropic, hence independent of \(n\), or anisotropic with the extra condition of being symmetric, \(F(\kappa,n)=F(\kappa, -n)\). The author then carefully studies the longtime behaviour of evolving convex curves. A key ingredient is the Gauss map which becomes a diffeomorphism for convex embedded closed curves. The method of rewriting the evolution equation in terms of support functions is exploited to analyse properties of possible limiting shapes that occur during the evolution. Particularly interesting are the numerous sharp regularity results that are given. In addition, he obtains regularity estimates for flows with singular initial curves.