Morphing composite cylindrical lattices: Thermal effects and actuation

Ciarán McHale, Sean Carey, Demetra A. Hadjiloizi, Paul M. Weaver

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Morphing composite structures offer lightweight, tunable stiff solutions to complex engineering problems, such as deployable spacecraft technology. Notably, the morphing cylindrical lattice is a multi-stable structure that can change from being compact when stowed to being long and thin when deployed. This structure is particularly suited for deployable booms, solar arrays and antennas due to its packaging efficiency and lightweight nature. Current analytical models of these types of structures can only accurately predict the stability characteristics of lattices that use symmetrical laminates. This paper advances mathematical modelling of the lattice through the inclusion of thermal expansion effects of non-symmetrical laminates. Large thermal stresses develop in non-symmetric composite panels in the post cure cool-down of manufacture, caused by the differences in the thermal expansion coefficients above and below the neutral axis. This effect results in undesired thermal warping of the panels. However, using the model developed in this work, this response can be tailored to design a lattice that acts as a thermal actuator, responding purposefully, i.e. by morphing, with the application of heat. This new analytical model is validated through comparison with finite element analysis and experimental tests, showing excellent agreement for both anti-symmetrical and unsymmetrical lattices.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAIAA Scitech 2020 Forum
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA
ISBN (Print)9781624105951
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020
EventAIAA Scitech Forum, 2020 - Orlando, United States
Duration: 6 Jan 202010 Jan 2020

Publication series

NameAIAA Scitech 2020 Forum
Volume1 PartF

Conference

ConferenceAIAA Scitech Forum, 2020
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOrlando
Period6/01/2010/01/20

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