Strategies for modelling and optimization of bi-stable composite laminates actuated by embedded Shape Memory Alloy wires

Shape-adaptive or morphing capability is regarded as significant to increase aerodynamic performance of airfoils employed in aerospace, wind turbines or race cars, while at the same time reducing the number of moving parts. The inherent bistable behavior of asymmetric cross-ply composites makes them as a suitable candidate for morphing applications with a small energy input, and an efficient way to switch between the two equilibrium configurations is given by embedded shape memory alloy (SMA) wires. However, when a bi-stable composite plate is integrated with SMA wires (Shape Memory Alloy Composite, SMAC), the identification of design parameters, namely laminate size and layup, composite elastic constants, SMA wires number and thermomechanical behavior, SMAC manufacturing cycle, is not straightforward. The present work described the strategies developed by the authors to model and optimize a SMAC subjected to bi-stability and post-manufacturing deflection requirements.