Single member actuation of kagome lattice structures

The two-dimensional kagome lattice has been shown to be a promising basis for active shape-changing structures, having both low actuation resistance and high passive stiffness. Activation of some members results in a global macroscopic shape change. Small deformation models show that the kagome lattice’s properties are critically dependent on its initial geometry. This paper investigates the fundamental actuation properties of a kagome lattice subject to single-member actuation, particularly when geometric nonlinearity is introduced with large actuation strains. Actuation resistance is found to be lowered with expansive actuation; a limiting peak actuation stiffness is observed when the actuator is flexible. Conversely, actuation resistance is found to increase with contractile actuation.

Keywords

kagome lattice, morphing, actuation

Milestones

Received: 28 April 2006

Accepted: 5 December 2006

Published: 1 April 2007

Authors

Anthony C. H. Leung
Department of Engineering University of Cambridge Trumpington Street Cambridge CB2 1PZ United Kingdom

Simon D. Guest
Department of Engineering University of Cambridge Trumpington Street Cambridge CB2 1PZ United Kingdom
http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/~sdg

Vol. 2, No. 2, 2007

Anthony C. H. Leung and Simon D. Guest

Abstract

Keywords

Milestones

Authors