Simulation and optimization of shape memory alloy cables

In this work, using a three-dimensional constitutive model and implicit solution through a user defined subroutine (UMAT) in Abaqus software, mechanical behavior of shape memory alloy (SMA) cables and their constituents are investigated. Material parameters of shape memory alloy cables are identified by numerical simulations and available experimental data. Finite element (FE) method is first employed for analysis of an elastic steel cable and subsequently for a superelastic (SE) cable. The simulation results for these two steel and SE cables show good agreement when compared with experimental data which also validates the simulation approach. The wire rope is then simulated for shape memory effect (SME) cables and investigating mechanical behavior and several diagrams including normal stress, shear stress, strain and temperature for both superelastic and shape memory effect cables are presented. Moreover, utilizing the design of experiments method, shape memory effect cable is optimized to achieve the maximum specific energy. The method proposed in this study can be used for the design and optimization of shape memory alloy wire ropes.