Effect of smart stiffening procedure on low-velocity impact response of smart structures

The paper presents the response of smart hybrid composite plate subjected to low-velocity impact. The low-velocity impact response of the composite plate embedded with shape memory alloy (SMA) wires is investigated. The SMA wires are embedded within the layers of the composite laminate. The first-order shear deformation theory as well as the Fourier series method is utilized to solve the dynamic governing equations of the hybrid composite plate analytically. The interaction between the impactor and the plate is modeled with the help of two degrees-of-freedom system, consisting of springs-masses. The Choi's linearized Hertzian contact model is used in the impact analysis of the laminated hybrid composite plate. The stiffness of the composite structures classified into two new groups. Interactive and non-interactive effects of these stiffnesses are studied too. In addition, a procedure named smart stiffening procedure (SSP) was used to improve the impact resistance of the composite structures. It was seen that by using of the SSP, the mechanical characteristics of the structure could be improved the most.