Analysis of SMA Hybrid Composite Structures in MSC.Nastran and ABAQUS

A thermoelastic constitutive model for shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators embedded in a composite structure, termed an SMA hybrid composite (SMAHC), was recently implemented in the commercial finite element codes MSC.Nastran and ABAQUS. The model can be easily implemented in any code that has the capability for analysis of laminated composite structures with temperature-dependent material properties. The model is also relatively easy to use, and requires input of only fundamental engineering properties. A brief description of the model is presented, followed by a discussion of implementation and usage in commercial codes. Results are presented from static and dynamic analysis of SMAHC beams of two types: a beam clamped at each end and a cantilever beam. Nonlinear static (post-buckling) and random response analyses are demonstrated for the first specimen. Static deflection (shape) control is demonstrated for the cantilever beam. Approaches for modeling SMAHC material systems with embedded SMA in ribbon and small round wire product forms are demonstrated and compared. The results from commercial codes are compared with those from a research code as validation of commercial implementations; excellent correlation is achieved in all the cases.