Interactive fiber-elastomer composites for locomotion mechanism

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

There is a considerable need for research to fully exploit the application potential of adaptive fiber-reinforced plastics based on functional materials, in particular with regard to industry-specific solutions. Hence, this paper presents the development of a locomotion mechanism based on fiber-elastomer composites with shape memory alloys. In order to attain this goal, shape memory alloys were textile-technically integrated into the reinforcing fabric in the weft direction using flat knitting technology. The functionalized reinforcing fabrics was infused by the vacuum assisted resin infusion with an elastomeric silicone matrix system. Later, an extensive electro-thermal-mechanical characterization of the fiber-elastomer composites by varying electrical power caused by the varying voltage amplitude was completed. The fiber-elastomer composites were then shaped in a cross-country ski as an example of locomotion mechanism. Finally, the forward movement of the cross-country skiers was realized by activating the shape memory alloy in the left and right leg.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)494-503
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites
Volume42
Issue number9-10
Publication statusPublished - May 2023
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

ORCID /0000-0001-7698-9095/work/172571225

Keywords

Keywords

  • Fiber-elastomer composites, knitting technology, locomotion mechanism, shape memory alloys