Semirígididad

Semirígididad, derived from the Spanish words “semi” (partial) and “rigididad” (rigidity), refers to the intermediate stiffness of a material or structure that is neither fully rigid nor completely flexible. In mechanical engineering, it quantifies how a component deforms under load while still maintaining a degree of structural integrity. The concept is widely applied in the design of compliant mechanisms, flexible electronics, and biomedical implants where controlled deformation enhances performance or safety.

In practice, semirígididad is expressed through parameters such as elastic modulus, bending stiffness, or torsional rigidity. These properties are measured by subjecting specimens to bending, twisting, or tension tests and recording the resulting strain or curvature. Materials like elastomers, soft metals, and composite laminates often display semirígid characteristics, enabling them to absorb shocks while preserving shape over a functional range.

The utility of semirígididad becomes evident in vibration isolation, where intermediate firmness reduces oscillations without transmitting excessive forces. In robotics, semirigid joints provide a compromise between precise positioning and flexible, reconfigurable movement. Biomedical devices, such as neural probes or bone plates, exploit semirígididity to accommodate soft tissues while maintaining fixation strength.

Historically, the study of semirígididad emerged alongside advances in materials science in the late twentieth century, driven by the need for lightweight, multifunctional structures. Modern computational methods, including finite element analysis, allow engineers to predict semirígid behavior accurately, thus guiding the selection of materials and geometry for specific applications.