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Reconfigurable helical lattices via topological morphing

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journal contribution
posted on 2021-05-17, 08:47 authored by Seán Carey, Ciarán McHale, Vincenzo OliveriVincenzo Oliveri, Paul M. Weaver
Composite materials can enhance morphing and deployable structure capability due to their high degree of tailor ability and their favourable stiffness- and strength-to-weight ratios. One such structure, the bistable helical lattice, is augmented in current work. To date this type of structure, shows promise in aerospace systems which require linear actuation. Herein, morphing capabilities are enhanced by removing traditional mechanical fasteners at the joints, and replacing them with magnets which allow detachment and re-attachment in a controlled, purposeful way. Within a helical lattice structure, joint detachment creates new functionality by allowing a new topology to be formed which is used to convert a linear actuator to one that is curved and then back again, when the joints are reattached. The required force to actuate the topological change is characterised through the use of both finite element analysis and experimental testing. The structural response is observed through the manufacture and testing of a demonstrator which replaces the traditional joints with a series of magnets in order to capture this variable topology behaviour.

History

Publication

Materials & Design;206, 109769

Publisher

Elsevier

Note

peer-reviewed

Other Funding information

SFI

Language

English

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