Instability-driven shape forming of fiber reinforced polymer frames

Thin fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are widely implemented in adaptive and morphing structures. However, realization of the necessary complex 3-dimensional FRP structures requires use expensive molds thereby limiting design space flexibility. Using elastic strain energy pre-stretched membranes holds potential for addressing this challenge. In work, a novel manufacturing technique fabricating moldlessly is presented where used to drive out-of-plane buckling instabilities composite shells. To explore approach, simple square frame investigated. An analytical model based on high deformation beam theory developed understanding parameters driving behavior these Experimental finite element results validation reveal excellent agreement, with errors less than 10% over large portion space. Analytical models demonstrate that can be tailored by varying structure’s geometric material parameters. A new laminates characterized, enabling highly flexible design. The modeling techniques extended other geometries analysis arbitrarily surfaces.