Numerical Investigation of Bistable Laminates on Geometric Scaling

Bistable laminates are finding applications at various scales. They are being used in energy harvesting, sensors and morphing structures. It is crucial to understand the theoretical and practical scale bounds of bistable laminates. Variations of curvatures, snap-through loads, strain energies and planar stresses for a [0/90] cross-ply laminate upon geometric scaling are investigated in the paper for two plan sizes and various edge length to thickness ratios. Governing scaling law for isometric geometrical scaling is determined. 3-dimensional finite element analysis using solid-continuum elements is presented to predict possible delamination at the free edge. By characterizing the laminate behavior, the paper aims to reduce the numerical and experimental effort in investigating large numbers of individual specimens.