Shock absorption capability of woven SMA skin

Abstract

Pseudoelastic shape memory alloys (SMAs) have great potential of shock absorption because of their large reversible strain and the force-thresholding characteristics, especially when used with geometric nonlinearity such as post-buckling deformation. Martensitic SMAs also have favorable shock absorption capacity with actuation capability. In this paper, we attempt to apply both pseudoelastic and martensitic SMAs to the design of the outer skins of mechanical and structural systems to give them significant shock tolerance. The shock isolation capability of pseudoelastic NiTi thin wire is firstly examined by low velocity weight-dropping tests. Then, as the first step toward the development of woven SMA-based shock absorbing skin, both pseudoelastic and martensitic SMA wires are woven to form mesh structures, and their shock absorbing characteristics are investigated. The tests suggest that the energy absorption capacity of the SMA mesh can be adjustable by combining appropriate amount of martensitic wires, even though that of the pseudoelastic SMA by itself is rather poor.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.