Modeling of integrated shape memory alloy and Macro-Fiber Composite actuated trailing edge

Abstract

Owing to their high energy densities, smart materials like shape memory alloys (SMAs), Macro-Fiber Composites (MFCs) and, electroactive polymers (EAPs) have massive potential as actuators in wing morphing applications. In this article, a detailed numerical model is developed for the shape prediction of an elastic base that is actuated by a combination of a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire and a Macro-Fiber Composite (MFC) bimorph. It has been demonstrated using the model that it is possible to achieve large deflections at low frequencies by virtue of the phase transformations in the SMA wire and rapid actuation with small deflections due to the MFC bimorph. In the developed scheme, the elastic base is modeled using non-linear Euler-Bernoulli beam theory. The influence of the non-linear hysteresis in the SMA wire and the linear actuation characteristics of the MFC is studied by incorporating thermo-mechanical and electro-mechanical constitutive behavior into the non-linear beam theory. The system of coupled equations hence obtained, is solved iteratively to obtain the deflected shape of the elastic base. The results from the developed numerical scheme are validated against the previously available studies in the literature and experiments. Additionally, the synergistic advantage of using the two actuators together has been shown through experiments. As an illustration, a smart trailing edge camber morphing concept is developed by integrating the flexible elastic structure along with the two smart actuators to a NACA 0012 airfoil as the trailing edge.

Deformation control method for active shape morphing lattice structure using topology optimization approach

“…Figure 5 illustrates the relationship between the thermoelastic force and the current ratio. When θ ∈ [0, 1], the relationship changes as described in equation (2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15). When θ ∈ [1, +∞), the thermo-elastic force reaches its maximum and remains constant.…”

“…Additionally, they established a numerical model to conduct simulations of stress and deformation resulting from SMA actuator. Mukherjee et al [14] designed a morphing trailing edge featuring integrated SMA and macro-fiber composite actuators. Subsequently, they devised a numerical modeling approach to predict the profile achieved when both actuators are utilized, highlighting the advantages of combining these two actuators.…”

Development of a novel two-way 3D printed flexible spiral composite actuator based on shape memory alloy wire and its control

“…concept can be encountered in many different applications [1,2], such as in the bio-inspired soft robotics [3][4][5][6], artificial muscles [7][8][9], morphing structures [10], microrobots [11], soft wearable designs-robots [12][13][14] or soft grippers [8,[15][16][17][18], and origami structures [16,19,20]. Also, soft robotic technology advances into the future by integrating with innovative sensory feedback systems [21] and laminar designs that improve its functionality [22].…”

Magnetic actuation of switchable bistable structures: a numerical study

“…An important aspect in their design is the actuation system that enables snapthrough between these stable states. A major focus has been on the use of energy dense solid state actuators like shape memory alloys (SMAs) and macro-fiber composites (MFCs) [4][5][6]. These actuators can however substantially alter the bistability characteristics and the snapthrough performance [5].…”