Pseudo-bistable self-actuated domes for morphing applications

A. Brinkmeyer, M. Santer, A. Pirrera, P. M. Weaver

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

We present a new concept of morphing bistable structure which relies on viscoelastic effects. We show how a careful choice of geometrical and material parameters for an isotropic spherical dome can result in a pseudo-bistable structure which, once actuated, can return to its original state without further actuation. A numerical model is used to investigate the effect of various parameters on the nature of the pseudo-bistability, and a global geometrical parameter is found to govern the characteristic response of the structure. Experimental results demonstrate this phenomenon in a real dome.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1077-1087
Number of pages11
JournalInternational Journal of Solids and Structures
Volume49
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 May 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Adaptive structures
  • Bistability
  • Morphing
  • Snap-through
  • Viscoelasticity

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Pseudo-bistable self-actuated domes for morphing applications'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this