Effect of Embedded Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) on the Low-velocity Impact Behaviour of Stringer Stiffened Composite Plates

Abstract This study presents an analytical model of low-velocity impact on composite plates, possessing either flat or cylindrical shapes. The overall plate`s stiffness properties are varied with an additionally assembled Ω-stringer and embedded shape memory alloy wires in the composite material, using only the shape memory effect. This analytical approach enables a low-effort but sufficiently accurate design of low-energy-impacted structures. Comprehensive analytical equations are developed based on the inclusion of the stringer effect on the curved panels. For both stringer-stiffened and non-stiffened plate models, parameter variations regarding the impact and shape memory alloy (SMA) wire integration are conducted. The effects can be classified as changes in essential and acquired stiffness. Our results indicate that SMAs improve the energy absorption capability of stiffened composite panels.