'I knit really crazy things, and this was the first time that I'd really encountered something that was [so] different,' she says.
Matsumoto, an assistant professor of physics at the Georgia Institute of Technology, studies the limits and possibilities of knitted materials to understand how different stitches transform the mechanical properties the stretchiness and support - of everyday fabrics.
In her latest project, funded by the National Science Foundation, Matsumoto and her students are searching for a fundamental equation (such as those that describe gravity or the flow of water) to perfectly describe the properties of knitted fabrics.
Such an equation could be transformative not only for pure mathematics and the study of theoretical knots, but for applied maths in the form of customisable prosthetics, wearable electronics, and new ultra-tough materials. For the astronauts who will one day journey to Mars, for instance, it could mean previously unimaginable spacesuits that protect against the radiation in space.
Knot theory is essential to finding the grand equation of knitting. This type of topology investigates the fundamental traits and limitations of knotted objects. In the case of physical knots, this might take the form of studying how deformations - twists or compressions affect a fabric's elasticity, or how far it can be stretched.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Can a retired rocket engine take us to Mars?
The space shuttle's main engine was mothballed with the programme in 2011. Now NASA believes it's the future of interplanetary travel.
6 metre waves. All engines on fire. 1 500 Km from land.
How Flying Tiger 923 and its 'miracle pilot' made an impossible ocean landing.
Land Rover Discovery D300
A FEW MONTHS ago a $2 billion lottery jackpot was won in the United States. It’s fun to sometimes ponder outrageous winnings like that, and how I’d spend it, even if it’s completely detached from reality.
Volkswagen Taigo R-Line 1.0 TSI
The compact proportions make this a delightful daily commuter.
Mazda CX-5 2.2 L De Akera AWD
Floor the pedal and overtaking is achieved easily and safely.
Making the most out of your grinder
THE HUMBLE BENCH GRINDER IS A STAPLE of the handyworker's home shop, largely due to its versatility. But, while you can employ one to remove metal from just about anything, the traditional kind may not provide the precision you need for every grinding operation. Here, we shed light on the best ways to use the different types of grinders, gleaned from our testing.
Unlock your devices' full potential with a USB-C hub
AS NEW TECH SHRINKS EACH YEAR, essential ports such as USB-A, HDMI, and ethernet are being replaced by the slimmer USB-C.
WE BUILT THE WORLD'S FIRST V-8 TESLA
THE RICH REBUILDS TEAM HAD A DEAD MODEL S. THEY FIXED IT WITH A CAMARO ENGINE.
I bought a GHOST TOWN
This abandoned California mining village once had 400 buildings. Now I'm restoring the 20 that remain.
F1 taught me that speed starts with comfort
AS A FAN OF MOTORSPORT, I'M ALWAYS fascinated with the finer details that go into Formula One racing. Piloting the fastest racing cars on the planet subjects drivers to savage forces - up to 6 G's under braking which has led to an almost endless pursuit of comfort.
