FEA Study on the Elastic Deformation Process of a U-Shape Bimetal Actuator

Abstract:

Bimetal actuators are frequently used in engineering applications. The literature for the design of bimetal actuators recommends only approximate analytical formulas for various bimetal structures, all with constant section on the entire length. No reference was found for bimetals with variable cross-section or bimetals shape optimization. Topology and shape optimization specialized software packages are not always an available or easy to use option. The paper presents a Finite Element Analysis, FEA, for a U-shaped bimetal with equal legs, considering both mechanical and thermal loads. FEA modeling aspects and some suggestions considering possible new shape modifications for this type of actuator are discussed.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 837)
• Pages: 305-309
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.837.305
• Online since: November 2013
• Authors: Mihail Aignătoaie
• Keywords: Bimetal Actuators, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Shape Optimisation, Stress Concentration

References

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DOI: 10.1109/ines.2012.6249842