Characterization and modeling of bistable laminates for kinetic shading screens

Abstract

There is an critical need in kinetic envelope design to propose sustainable solutions that can adjust to changing outdoor conditions. Bistable composite laminates are compliant systems appealing for kinetic building envelopes because they present two stable equilibrium states and transition between them with little input energy. This study characterizes the behavior of bistable laminates for kinetic screens by developing an FEA model and conducting experimental testing to validate the model and compare both data sets. The FEA model predicts the laminates’ cured states, snap-through movement, and required actuation force. The FEA model can accurately predict the cured states of the laminates. Regarding the movement of the laminate and actuation force, the simulation results mostly correlate quantitatively with the experimental data and differ qualitatively. However, the FEA model can accurately predict the critical force required to snap through the laminates, which ranges between 2.5 and 4 N.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Kinetic envelopes
• bistable laminates
• compliant systems
• snap-through
• buckling
• FEA modelling

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).