Analysis and optimization of smart hybrid composite plates subjected to low-velocity impact using the response surface methodology (RSM)

Optimization of the volume fraction, the orientation and the through thickness location of the shape memory alloy (SMA) wires was used in order to minimize the maximum transverse deflection of the hybrid composite plate during the low-velocity impact phenomena. The prediction of optimal conditions of good geometrical properties of SMA wires in smart hybrid composites plays an important role in process planning. The present work deals with the study and development of a verified strict model for smart composite plate deflection, which embedded with the SMA wires, using response surface method (RSM). This method helped us to estimate deflection ratio as a mathematical function of the main process planning parameters. The experimentation was carried out with the first-order shear deformation theory, the Fourier series method and solving analytically the system of governing differential equations of the plate. The interaction between the impactor and the plate also modeled with a system having two-degrees-of-freedom, consisting of springs-masses. A nonlinear mathematical model, in terms of the volume fraction and layer sequence (the orientation and the through thickness location) of the SMA wires was delivered. The results indicated that the volume fraction is a more important factor affecting the optimization and the design process of the structures. (C) 2008 Published by Elsevier Ltd.