Flexural Models for Vacuum-Packed Particles as a Variable-Stiffness Mechanism in Smart Structures

Vacuum-packed particle (VPP) systems have been recently used in the development of smart structures due to their ability actively change material stiffness through mechanism granular jamming. By altering strength vacuum pressure applied particles, can be proportionally and reversibly transitioned from a liquidlike low-stiffness state stiff state. The control this way opens up different possibilities for design morphing by allowing them soften during deformation reduce actuation energy requirements then stiffen once desired shape has achieved provide zero-energy holding mechanism. following research describes two useful models that predict mechanical response VPP beams under flexural loading. Firstly, four-point bending tests with digital image correlation strain mapping are performed order measure axial transverse strains beam made vacuum-packed particles. test results show nonlinear response, including thickness deformation, motivated an analytical model structure incorporating stress based on Mohr-Coulomb failure envelope. In addition, finite-element simulations implemented using Johnson-Cook extension loading three-dimensional elements at levels. Lastly, compared experimental results, indicating good agreement. Both methods shown predicting variation beams.