Inverse design of parameter-controlled disclination paths

Topological defects, such as disclination lines in nematic liquid crystals, are fundamental to many physical systems and applications. In this work, we study the behavior of nematic disclinations in thin parallel-plate geometries with strong patterned planar anchoring. Building on prior models, we solve both the forward problem-predicting disclination trajectories from given surface patterns-and an extended inverse problem-designing surface patterns to produce a tunable family of disclination curves under varying system parameters. We present an explicit calculation for pattern construction, analyze parameter limitations and stability constraints, and highlight experimental and technological applications.

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Publication Details

Journal
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Published
2025-09-18
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2508362122
Primary Topic
Liquid Crystal Research Advancements
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Inverse design of parameter-controlled disclination paths

Hillel Aharoni, Yehonatan Tsubery
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Liquid Crystal Research Advancements
article

Inverse design of parameter-controlled disclination paths

Hillel Aharoni, Yehonatan Tsubery
article en

Abstract

Topological defects, such as disclination lines in nematic liquid crystals, are fundamental to many physical systems and applications. In this work, we study the behavior of nematic disclinations in thin parallel-plate geometries with strong patterned planar anchoring. Building on prior models, we solve both the forward problem-predicting disclination trajectories from given surface patterns-and an extended inverse problem-designing surface patterns to produce a tunable family of disclination curves under varying system parameters. We present an explicit calculation for pattern construction, analyze parameter limitations and stability constraints, and highlight experimental and technological applications.

Proceedings of the National Academy of SciencesVol. 122(38)
Weizmann Institute of Science (IL)
Openalex Percentile: Top 83%
Liquid Crystal Research Advancements
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