Highly multi-stable FRP shell metamaterials
This research aims at investigating the new design space given by the interaction of a relatively stiff FRP composite structure with a pre-stretched soft membrane. The objective of the research is to prove the feasibility of this mold-less manufacturing technique for the realization of composite metamaterials with variable stiffness properties. The proposed research will achieve multi-functional structures with features tailored for shape adaptivity such as multi-stability and lightweight design.
Project Team
- Giada Risso, Doctoral Student
- Paolo Ermanni, Principal Investigator
Contact
Project Duration:
2018 to present
Funding sources
- SNSF grant no. 200021-192082; Variable Stiffness Composite Metamaterials
Project Description
Shape adaptation in lightweight structures has been subject of intensive research. This approach, which allows structures to change their mechanical response depending on different environmental conditions, is very promising regarding the realization of high efficiency components that need to be compliant with respect to certain modes and stiff to others. In order to achieve such a behavior several solutions have been proposed in the literature, however meeting all the requirements is a remaining challenge. In fact, those structures need to be not only deformable and load carrying simultaneously, but also lightweight and manufacturable.
In the context of shape adaptation, the present research aims to propose a novel solution by designing highly anisotropic composite elements into metamaterial geometries. Combining fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) thin composite shells with pre-stretched membranes in order to generate elastic instabilities, enables a mould-less manufacturing process of complex 3D topologies. Moreover, the use of symmetry and periodicity properties leads to multi-stable structures. The developed design is envisioned to have impact in multiple applications such as load-carrying soft robots or foldable sandwich core structures.