A sensitivity analysis of the dynamic performance of a composite plate with shape memory alloy wires

In this paper the dynamic performance of a multi-layered composite plate with embedded shape memory alloy (SMA) wires has been investigated in terms of the changes in its relative fundamental natural frequency. A sensitivity analysis has been carried out on the influence of various geometrical parameters and material properties on the plate’s dynamic performance, as well as the influence of the form of boundary condition. The use of the active property tuning (APT) method and the active strain energy tuning (ASET) method has also been discussed within the paper. The finite element method has been used for the analysis, and a new element has been exploited for modelling multi-layered composite plates. It has been found that the dynamic performance of the multi-layered composite plate with embedded SMA wires strongly depends on the plate geometry and the form of boundary condition, however, the dynamics can be successfully controlled and influenced by an optimal selection of the geometrical parameters and material properties.