Formulation of a Mechanical Model for Composites With Embedded SMA Actuators

Abstract

Shape memory alloy reinforced composites are an extremely versatile class of materials with adaptive characteristics that may be exploited for damage control, active structural acoustic control, dynamic tuning, and shape control. In order to design structures reliably with embedded shape memory alloy actuators, a fundamental mechanical model must be formulated to predict the materials’ variable stiffness, induced moments and loads, and the change of curvature that can result. The mechanical model described in this paper is formulated from the micromechanical behavior of the highly nonlinear shape memory alloy actuators and classical lamination theory. The behavior of typical shape memory alloys will be presented and then used in formulating a one- and two-dimensional model and the results will be applied to plate theory.