hysteron
/ˈhɪstəˌrɒn/
Definition
A fundamental mechanical component that possesses two stable states and exhibits hysteresis, meaning its current state depends on its previous physical inputs.
Etymology
The term is derived from the Greek word 'hysteron', meaning 'later' or 'latter'. It was coined as a technical term to describe systems that demonstrate hysteresis, a phenomenon where the state of a system lags behind the forces applied to it.
In the news
In this article, hysterons are the basic building blocks of a spring-based computer, acting as physical logic gates that store memory through their snapping motion. By linking multiple hysterons together, researchers can perform complex computations without the need for electricity.
Scientists Built a Working Computer Out of Springs That Doesn't Use a Single Watt of Electricity
Read the full article ↗ZME Science