Modeling and Study of a Nonlinear Resonator with Shape Memory Alloy for Applications in Smart Metamaterials

• Grant number: 25/13149-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Mechanics of Solids
• Principal Investigator: Kayc Wayhs Lopes
• Grantee: Ana Carolina Saggioratto Osello
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 18/15894-0 - Periodic structure design and optimization for enhanced vibroacoustic performance: ENVIBRO, AP.TEM

Abstract

Metamaterials and periodic structures have been widely used due to their ability to attenuate vibrations within specific frequency ranges, known as bandgaps. However, these frequency ranges depend on the material properties, which are generally linear and time-invariant. As a result, the bandgaps remain fixed, limiting the effectiveness of vibration attenuation when the system is subjected to variable disturbances.To overcome this limitation, the development of systems with tunable frequencies becomes essential, in order to enhance vibration attenuation under different operational conditions. One promising alternative involves the use of smart materials, such as shape memory alloys (SMAs) or piezoelectric patches, which allow modification of the structure's dynamic behavior and, consequently, of the frequency range to be attenuated. Additionally, the exploration of nonlinearities in the design of resonators represents another viable strategy, due to the relationship between their operating frequency and the amplitude of the excitation applied to the material. In this context, this research proposes the modeling of innovative nonlinear resonators with SMA, aiming to improve the vibroacoustic performance of metamaterials. By adjusting the temperature of the SMA and exploring the inherent nonlinearity of the resonator, the proposed design is expected to enable the formation of distinct or widened bandgaps, potentially allowing the creation of an adaptive metamaterial. The development of this project may contribute significantly to the advancement of the field, offering a versatile solution for dynamic vibration control in variable operational environments.