A constructive approach to modelling the tight shapes of some linked structures
Eugene L. Starostin · PAMM · 2003
Abstract A variational approach is used to find the shortest curves confined to lie in two orthogonal planes and separated by a constant distance. The method is applicable to constructing tight shapes of linked structures each component of which is known to be planar. The shapes of the Borromean rings and two clasped pieces of rope are two examples. A concept of tight periodic structures is introduced and discussed.