Shape memory alloy based morphing for underwater vehicles
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Authors
Angilella, Alexander J.
Issue Date
2018-08
Type
Electronic thesis
Thesis
Thesis
Language
ENG
Keywords
Aeronautical engineering
Alternative Title
Abstract
A shape memory alloy-based buoyancy engine is proposed in part one of this dissertation. The structural design of this concept was analyzed and a benchtop prototype was produced. Experimental testing of the prototype's displacement-temperature behavior agreed well with simulation predictions. The vertical dynamics of a scaled-up protoype in oceanic operation were also investigated. A coupled dynamic and heat-transfer simulation showed operation of the buoyancy engine to 770m. The fatigue life was estimated from the strain of the alloys and shown to effectively eliminate the constraint of the buoyancy engine on endurance. A semi-active system was proposed and the simulation indicated that the semi-active system would enable surfacing of the glider. Cu-Zn-Al shape memory alloys were identified for oceanic operation.
Description
August 2018
School of Engineering
School of Engineering
Full Citation
Publisher
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY