SMART MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES

SMART MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES

ABSTRACT

Smart materials, which have the functions of actuator, sensor, self-healing and so forth, are expected to be used not only as advanced functional materials but also as key materials to provide structures with smart functions. Smart systems sense changes in structure variations in vibration, noise or temperature, for example process the information and then respond appropriately to automatically correct possibly detrimental problems. They tell the structure to alter its properties to prevent damage, optimize performance, correct malfunctions or alert users to a needed repair.

Smart materials technology applies to a huge range of products including buildings, bridges, computers, cameras, aircraft, even skis. Think about the way in which excessive vibration in a machine on the shop floor may result in overheating, or parts that don't meet the manufacturer's specifications. Then, imagine the problems that could occur if a similar situation happened on an aircraft and you begin to understand the scope and value of smart material applications.

The best way to understand the smart material concept is to look at its uses. Smart materials may work completely on their own or as part of a larger smart system. For example, doctors may use shape memory alloy staples used to set broken bones. In this case, the material works as both a sensor and an actuator as the patient's body heat activate the staple to close and thereby clamp the break together. This report deals with the available smart materials, their properties and some of their areas of application and future prospects.

"In the next decade, the most significant impact on product manufacturing will be smart systems"

Introduction

In this chapter, we take an overview of the definitions of smart structures, their areas of research and the barriers to the technology proliferation. In the design of aerospace, automotive, civil and several other systems, new technologies are being introduced to create high-performance structures that are light, energy efficient and autonomous. A new class of structures known as “Smart Structures” has emerged that aims at meeting the above mentioned properties. Smart structures derive their inspiration from the natural systems in that they possess the capabilities of serving the ambient conditions, processing the data and actively responding to the structures. These characteristics are applied to the otherwise “passive” structures by embedding
“smart materials” that possess these properties along with the control systems that processes the data.

In the years to come, the roles of the Canadian Forces will continue to be to defend the country and its vital interests, and to participate actively in peacekeeping and peace restoration missions. To carry out these tasks in an appropriate and effective way, the Forces must keep abreast of technological advances and needs if they are to adopt and bring into service the best available ones. Moreover, effective collaboration with our allies, especially the Americans, will clearly demand the best in equipment and training.

Last year, the Defense Research and Development Branch of DND published a document explaining the policies, opportunities and desired outcomes for the near future. ‘Smart materials’ and ‘smart structures’ are listed among the technological opportunities and the proposed Research and Development (R&D) activities of the future defense program. The race is on to explore, develop and exploit the newest products of smart technology, and this is needed to keep our Forces competitive with potential adversaries.

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