ABSTRACT

Asymmetric composite laminates can have multiple equilibrium states in which actuator materials such as piezoelectrics or shape-memory alloys (SMAs) can be used to induce “snap-through” between each stable shape. One advantage of this approach of inducing a shape change in composite structures is that a continuous energy input is not required to maintain a structural shape. Such structures have recently found interest for a number of applications, in particular shape change, morphing, and energy harvesting applications.