Adaptive Composite Panel with Embedded SMA Actuators: Modeling and Validation

Abstract

This article focuses on the development of a finite elements model of an adaptive composite panel with embedded shape memory alloy actuators. It is firstly shown that a combination of shell, beam and link elements could be employed to model the panel. A simplified version of the Likhachev model is then employed as the constitutive relation for the actuators. Several experimental tests were successfully carried out on a prototype to validate the model and to demonstrate the possibility of controlling the panel shape. Further works should consider improving the technique employed for reading the actuators’ temperature during experimental tests.