3-D Finite Element Analysis of Indentation Recovery due tothe Shape Memory Effect

摘要

The potential use of Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) as micro-actuators promotes study of the behaviors of thesematerials at small length scales. The recovery of micro-indentations due to the shape memory effect has recentlybecome an area of particular interest. Experimental observation indicates promising microactuation ability inSMAs subject to indentation. In order to better understand the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon, 3-D Finite Element Analysis incorporating a new SMA transformation-plastic yield constitutive model is used tosimulate a unique experimental indentation procedure. This process involves the indentation of an SMA materialand the planarization of the material surface to remove all visible traces of the indent region; upon subsequentheating, a protrusion (exdent) is created in the indented zone. Key results of an analysis that simulates thisexperimental procedure are discussed, along with possibilities for future work.