ConstantTorqueBetweenCentersOfMass

The ConstantTorqueBetweenCentersOfMass potential applies a constant torque between two sets of particles, acting on the line connecting their centers of mass.

The torque \(\boldsymbol{\tau}\) is applied perpendicular to the line connecting the centers of mass, causing a rotational acceleration according to:

\[\mathbf{I} \cdot \boldsymbol{\alpha} = \boldsymbol{\tau}\]

where \(\mathbf{I}\) is the moment of inertia tensor and \(\boldsymbol{\alpha}\) is the angular acceleration.

---

• type: Set2, ConstantTorqueBetweenCentersOfMass

• parameters: None

• data: * idSet_i: int: Identifier for the first set of particles * idSet_j: int: Identifier for the second set of particles * torque: real: Magnitude of the constant torque \([torque]\)

Example:

"constantTorque":{
  "type":["Set2","ConstantTorqueBetweenCentersOfMass"],
  "labels":["idSet_i", "idSet_j", "torque"],
  "data":[
    [0, 1, 1.0]
  ]
}

Note

This potential is useful for simulating rotational forces between two groups of particles, such as those found in molecular motors or other complex mechanical systems.

Warning

The energy for this potential is not well-defined, as it represents a non-conservative force. The torque is distributed among the particles in each set based on their positions relative to their respective centers of mass.