Numerical simulation of double SMA wire actuator using two-way shape memory effect of SMA

Abstract

A structure using the two-way shape memory effect (TWSME) returns to its initial shape by increasing or decreasing temperature under initial residual stress. Through the thermo-mechanical constitutive equation of shape memory alloy (SMA) proposed by Lagoudas et al., we simulate the behavior of a double actuator in which two SMA wires are attached to the tip of bar under the initially given residual stress. Through the numerical results conducted in the present study, the proposed actuator device is suitable for repeated actuation. The simulation algorithm proposed in the present study can be applied extensively to the analysis of the assembled system of SMA-actuator and host structure in practical applications.