Transient deformation and curvature evolution during the snap-through of a bistable laminate under asymmetric point load

Bistable carbon fiber composites, whose bistability arises from having asymmetric layouts in different layers, have shown immense potential for using shape morphing and adaptive structure applications. While many studies this field focus on these composite laminates' external shapes at the two stable states, their snap-through behavior of shifting one to other remains a critical aspect be investigated complete detail. Moreover, symmetric loading conditions been extensively studied based classical lamination theory, but received far less attention. Therefore, study examines an asymmetric, localized point load [0∘/90∘] bistable laminate its complex transient deformation during snap-through. Finite element simulation experiment results reveal three uniquely behaviors — two-step snap, one-step no snap depending location. The initiation propagation “curvature inversion zone,” calculated finite digital image correlation results, are directly related characteristics. This also explored feasibility extended analytical model theory qualitatively reproduce above findings. compares polynomial functions orders approximate out-of-plane displacement field. study's can offer valuable insights into fundamental mechanics actuation designs composites scenarios.