Characterizing dynamic transitions associated with snap-through of clamped shallow arches

Symmetry breaking, snap-through and pull-in instabilities under dynamic loading of microelectromechanical shallow arches

Arch-shaped microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) have been used as mechanical memories, micro-relays, micro-valves, optical switches and digital micro-mirrors. A bi-stable structure, such as an arch, is characterized by a multivalued load deflection curve. Here we study the symmetry breaking, the snap-through instability and the pull-in instability of a bi-stable arch-shaped MEMS under static ...

Optimization of Shallow Arches against Instability Using Sensitivity Derivatives +

In this paper the author discusses the problem of optimization of shallow frame structures which involve a coupling of axial and bending responses. A shallow arch of a given shape and of given weight is optimized such that its limit point load is maximized. The cross-sectional area, A(x) and the moment of inertia, I(x) of the arch obey the relationship I(x) = p [A(x)] n, n = 1,2,3 and p is a sp...

Sensitivity in the structural behavior of shallow arches

It is well established that certain structural buckling problems are extremely sensitive to small changes in configuration: geometric imperfections, load application, symmetry, boundary conditions, etc. This paper considers the behavior of a very shallow arch under lateral point loading, and specifically under the influence of changes in the thermal environment. In some ways the system under st...

Nonlinear Buckling and Post-buckling of Shape Memory Alloy Shallow Arches

In this work, the nonlinear buckling and post-buckling behavior of shallow arches made of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) is investigated. Arches are susceptible to large deflections, due to their slenderness, especially when the external load exceeds the serviceability limit point. Beyond this, loss of stability may occur, the famous snap-through buckling. For this reason, curved beams can be used in...

Asymmetrical Creep Bqckling of Clamped Shallow Spherical Shells