The Load Capacity of a Kagome Based High Authority Shape Morphing Structure

A protocol for optimizing a high authority shape morphing plate is described. The design incorporates an active Kagome back-plane capable of changing the shape of a solid face by transmitting loads through a tetrahedral truss core. The optimization assesses the required geometric dimensions and actuator specifications in order to maximize the permissible shape changes and load capacity. The critical external loads for all failure mechanisms of the individual components are calculated and used as constraints in the optimization. Resistance of the structure to actuation is presented as an additional constraint. The ensuing relations are subsequently used to choose the best material for a given application. Numerical examples of the procedure are given for a defined structure.