Finite-Element Simulation of a Resonant Frequency-Tunable Vibration Isolator Based on Shape Memory Alloy Wire

Background The resonant-frequency-tunable vibration isolator based on Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) combines the priority of passive and active vibration isolators, expands its engineering application, and improves the efficiency of vibration isolation. However, the special characteristics of SMAs and the complexity of the resonant-frequency-tunable vibration isolator result in the difficulty in finite-element analysis. Methods This article employs the ABAQUS subroutine and presents the finite-element analysis for this resonant-frequency-tunable vibration isolator, which simulates the thermomechanical responses of SMA wires and the mechanical behaviors of the vibration isolator. Results The pseudoelasticity characteristics of SMA wires were simulated and validated. The mechanical characteristics of the vibration isolator, such as the temperatures, martensitic volume fractions, displacements, and equivalent stresses, were obtained and verified. Conclusions The results show that the finite-element analysis method presented is appropriate for simulating mechanical behaviors of the resonant-frequency-tunable vibration isolator. The analysis results reveal in detail the mechanical characteristics of the vibration isolator.