The Design of a Bistable Composite Connection Method Applied on the Low Volume Production of a Breast Board Table Connection

Bistable morphing composite laminates have been studied over the recent years because of their exquisite applications in energy harvesting and aerodynamic performance. A bistable laminate has two passive, stable positions that require an actuating bending moment for snap through. Different techniques have been developed to obtain bi-stability in composite laminates by using thermally or mechanically induced strain. Little study has been done around the more accessible method of laminate bi-stability through elastic buckling. This paper presents the design process of a buckling bistable composite connection method with human actuation.