2003 Volume 46 Issue 4 Pages 1241-1247
The deformation of a flagellum of Vibrio alginolyticus, single-flagellate bacteria, is analyzed theoretically assuming the shape of the flagellum to be a circular helix. The viscous force exerted on the flagellum in aqueous fluid is estimated applying the resistive-force theory based on the Stokes flow. The moment of force in the flagellum are described in analytical expressions and also the curvature and the torsion of the deformed flagellum are expressed analytically according to the Kirchhoff rod model. The deformation of the flagellum is obtained numerically solving evolution equations which determine a space curve from the curvature and the torsion. Comparing variations of the pitch of helical flagella between the numerical solutions and the results of measurement, the flexural rigidity or the elastic bending coefficient for the flagellum of Vibrio alginolyticus is estimated.
JSME international journal. Ser. 1, Solid mechanics, strength of materials
JSME international journal. Ser. A, Mechanics and material engineering
JSME international journal. Ser. 3, Vibration, control engineering, engineering for industry
JSME international journal. Ser. C, Dynamics, control, robotics, design and manufacturing
JSME International Journal Series A Solid Mechanics and Material Engineering
JSME International Journal Series B Fluids and Thermal Engineering