Optimal Design of Neuro-Mechanical Networks

Abstract: This thesis concerns modeling and optimal design of Neuro-Mechanical Networks. A Neuro-Mechanical Network (NMN) can be described as an active mechanical structure, made up from a network of simple but multifunctional elements that interact with their nearest neighbors. The concept is of mechatronic character as it involves integration of actuators, sensors, signal processing, and control, into a mechanical structure.The first part of the thesis consists of three chapters. The first of these chapters contains a brief introduction to the NMN-concept and the present work. In the second chapter, the particular type of NMNs considered here is described in more detail, and the third chapter constitute a brief survey of some works relevant to optimization of active structures, including enabling technologies and static and dynamic shape control.The second part of the thesis consists of two papers, where the first paper describes optimal design of NMNs for static shape control, while the second paper is concerned with optimal design of structures that exhibit oscillatory motion.