  This paper presents a mechanically bistable mechanism of the compressed
pre-curved beam. A governing equation is proposed which can be used to predict
and explain the bistability of the compressed pre-curved beam. FE simulations
and experimental tests are performed to validate the analytical solution. The
beams unique tunable and asymmetrical potential energy landscape is
demonstrated which enables the compressed pre-curved beam to switch its stable
position without the need of applying an external force to it. Based on that, a
coupled beam element is designed and used as a building block to develop
reprogrammable metasurfaces that can be programmed to exhibit different
configurations.
