A Simplified Linear Model of SMA for Flexible Structures Actuation

摘要

A simplified linear model of SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) is introduced here for the preliminary study of SMA actuation in flexible structures. The physical model is a flexible beam. Two methods are introduced to estimate the deformation of the beam to which a layer of shape memory alloy is attached. Both methods are based on approximate linearization of the effects of shape memory alloys. The results of the two methods are compared and sources of differences are analyzed and discussed.