ADVANCED MATERIAL – Memory Alloy

Advanced Material Thermomechanical Modelling of Shape
Memory Alloys Applied to Automotive Design

by M. Battaglia · A. Sellitto · A. Giamundo · M. Visone · A. Riccio

to enhancing aerodynamic efficiency in automotive applications
by exploiting shape memory alloy technology. To
this end, a thorough investigation of the thermomechanical
behaviour of these alloys was conducted in the paper.
Using a UMAT subroutine, the pseudoelastic effect and the
shape memory effect of these smart materials were analysed
numerically simultaneously, allowing accurate predictions
of their behaviour under different loads, and facilitating the
design and optimization of devices and systems based on
SMAs. Therefore, the article proposes an innovative solution
to optimize aerodynamic efficiency by using a Grille
Shutter with variable openings. The Active Grille Shutter
uses a bistable SMA actuator, allowing two optimal opening
positions for specific load conditions.