Articles | Volume 16, issue 2
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-16-821-2025
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-16-821-2025
Research article
 | 
18 Nov 2025
Research article |  | 18 Nov 2025

A continuum-based model for a layer jamming beam

Shuai Zhang, Jiantao Yao, Wumian Zhao, and Chunjie Wei

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Cited articles

Anubi, O. M., Patel, D. R., and Crane III, C. D.: A new variable stiffness suspension system: passive case, Mech. Sci., 4, 139–151, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-4-139-2013, 2013. 
Blanc, L., Delchambre, A., and Lambert, P.: Flexible Medical Devices: Review of Controllable Stiffness Solutions, Actuators, 6, 23, https://doi.org/10.3390/act6030023, 2017. 
Brancadoro, M., Manti, M., Tognarelli, S., and Cianchetti, M.: Fiber Jamming Transition as a Stiffening Mechanism for Soft Robotics, Soft Robotics, 7, 663–74, https://doi.org/10.1089/soro.2019.0034, 2020. 
Caruso, F., Mantriota, G., Afferrante, L., and Reina, G.: A theoretical model for multi-layer jamming systems, Mechanism and Machine Theory, 172, 104788, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mechmachtheory.2022.104788, 2022a. 
Caruso, F., Mantriota, G., and Reina, G.: An Analytical Model for Cantilever Layer-Jamming Structures, in: Advances in Italian Mechanism Science, Cham, 193–200, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-10776-4_23, 2022b. 
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Short summary
This paper introduces a continuum-based layer jamming model (CLJM) for structures with a large number of layers, treating them as a continuous medium. The CLJM effectively analyzes internal stress distribution and deformation across different mechanical states. Validation via finite-element analysis and experiments shows strong agreement, demonstrating that the CLJM provides an accurate and efficient theoretical tool for designing variable-stiffness applications.
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