Simulation of Adaptive Structures with Shape Memory Alloys

Abstract New multifunctional material systems with integrated actuators and sensors combined with new control concepts have cleared the way for adaptive structures which can change their properties (such as their geometry) due to external conditions. Because of the complex interaction of the components of adaptive structures there is the need for new simulation tools which are able to describe the complete system. In this paper different simulation methods for the conception of adaptive structures with Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) will be compared. Some results of simulations as well as of experimental tests are presented. With the new simulation system it is possible to evaluate the structure combined with the actuation effect and control concepts.