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Design of compliant structures

Author(s): C. H. M. Jenkins Abstract: Nature has embraced the compliant membrane structure as a central element in higher biological forms. Human-engineered structures have by and large followed the rule of “design with stiffness.” This chapter first looks to nature for guidance in the design of compliant membrane structures. In particular, we are led to partition of structural function, structural hierarchy, and low material modulus. Then we examine how these and other issues, such as boundary design and seams, can be illuminated in the design of compliant membrane structures in engineering. 1 Introduction: Every structure is a material. Historically, the term “structure” has conjured up images of structural form, such as a truss or a bridge, with the structural material relegated to the background. The layperson immediately recognizes the structural form of a truss, regardless of whether it is made from wood or steel (Fig. 1). On the other hand, there are many modern structures, such as the high-altitude balloon shown in Figure 2, which, due to their high compliance, transcend easily compartmentalized topographical descriptions. It is surprising how much the material essence of the structure stands out in the figure. Prior to the advent of material engineering, the structural engineering had little choice but to design the form of the structure, then search for an “off-the-shelf” material to use. Today, however, the ability to engineer the material at the same time as the structural form has changed the landscape of design. Pushing the performance demands of technology ever higher has led to new material/structural systems wherein the form and material become indistinguishable – this is indicative of approaching optimal design. Nowhere is this trend more evident than in compliant structures. ... Pages: 15 Size: 1,859 kb Paper DOI: 10.2495/978-1-85312-941-4/11

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