: We propose a simple numerical model for the motion of microswimmers based on the immersed boundary method. The swimmer, either pusher or puller, is represented by a distribution of point forces corresponding to the body and the flagellum. We study in particular the minimal model consisting of only three beads (two for the body and one for the flagellum) connected by rigid, inextensible links. When the beads are collinear, standard straight swimming is realized and, in the absence of propulsion, we demonstrate that the model recovers Jeffery's equation for a thin rod. Conversely, by imposing an angle between body and flagellum the swimmer moves on circular orbits. We discuss how two swimmers, in collinear or non-collinear geometry, scatter upon encounter. Finally, we explore the dynamics of a large number of swimmers reacting to one another only via hydrodynamic interactions, and exemplify their complex collective dynamics in both straight and circular swimmers.

Modeling straight and circle swimmers: from single swimmer to collective motion

Boffetta, Guido
Secondo
Membro del Collaboration Group
;
Cencini, Massimo
Penultimo
Membro del Collaboration Group
;
2024

Abstract

: We propose a simple numerical model for the motion of microswimmers based on the immersed boundary method. The swimmer, either pusher or puller, is represented by a distribution of point forces corresponding to the body and the flagellum. We study in particular the minimal model consisting of only three beads (two for the body and one for the flagellum) connected by rigid, inextensible links. When the beads are collinear, standard straight swimming is realized and, in the absence of propulsion, we demonstrate that the model recovers Jeffery's equation for a thin rod. Conversely, by imposing an angle between body and flagellum the swimmer moves on circular orbits. We discuss how two swimmers, in collinear or non-collinear geometry, scatter upon encounter. Finally, we explore the dynamics of a large number of swimmers reacting to one another only via hydrodynamic interactions, and exemplify their complex collective dynamics in both straight and circular swimmers.
2024
Istituto dei Sistemi Complessi - ISC
Microswimmers, immersed boundary method, Collective motions
File in questo prodotto:
File Dimensione Formato  
Ventrella2024.pdf

solo utenti autorizzati

Descrizione: Modeling straight and circle swimmers: from single swimmer to collective motion
Tipologia: Versione Editoriale (PDF)
Licenza: NON PUBBLICO - Accesso privato/ristretto
Dimensione 2.27 MB
Formato Adobe PDF
2.27 MB Adobe PDF   Visualizza/Apri   Richiedi una copia

I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.

Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14243/516994
Citazioni
  • ???jsp.display-item.citation.pmc??? ND
  • Scopus 0
  • ???jsp.display-item.citation.isi??? 0
social impact