Network of selectively compliant actuators based on shape memory alloys and polymers for a reconfigurable sandwich panel
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Date
2023-02
Publication Type
Journal Article
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yes
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Abstract
Shape memory alloys (SMA) allow for the realization of smart actuators capable of achieving large stresses and large strains but highly demanding in terms of power input. This work presents a solution integrating shape memory polymers (SMP) in a novel type of selectively compliant actuator to reduce the power input of SMAs. The thermally induced variation in stiffness of the SMP is used to achieve large deformations by temporarily increasing the compliance of the actuator and to lock the actuator in a deformed state by restoring the initial stiffness. The behavior of the actuator is simulated taking into account the viscoelastic behavior of the SMP and validated through a comparison with experimental results. The latter show that the proposed actuator can achieve a maximum contraction of 3.0% and hold a contraction of about 1.6% multiple times without constantly powering the SMA. Finally, a reconfigurable sandwich panel is considered as possible application. A distributed actuator network is implemented in the face sheets of the panel and a digital image correlation system is used to prove the capability of the proposed structure of undergoing large deformations, holding a deformed shape without consuming energy, and recovering its initial shape. A further development of this panel might find application as support structure for morphing aerodynamic surfaces or reconfigurable antennas.
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Publication status
published
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Book title
Volume
34 (3)
Pages / Article No.
341 - 351
Publisher
SAGE
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Edition / version
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Date collected
Date created
Subject
Shape memory; variable stiffness; reconfigurable structures; Smart actuators
Organisational unit
03507 - Ermanni, Paolo (emeritus) / Ermanni, Paolo (emeritus)
Notes
Funding
150729 - Optical measurement of three-dimensional surface displacement fields of morphing structures (SNF)