Modeling and characterization of the shape memory alloy–based morphing wing behavior using proposed rate-dependent Prandtl-Ishlinskii models

Unique features of shape memory alloys make them a proper actuation choice in various control systems. However, their nonlinear hysteresis behavior negatively affects wide utilization of such materials in structure actuation. In this study, the frequency effect on the hysteresis behavior of a shape memory alloy–actuated structure is experimentally investigated, and also two proposed versions of rate-dependent Prandtl-Ishlinskii (modified rate-dependent Prandtl-Ishlinskii and revised modified rate-dependent Prandtl-Ishlinskii) are presented, which are capable of characterizing this phenomenon. Experimental results show that increasing excitation frequency leads to bigger hysteresis loops. It is also proven that rate-dependency cannot be predicted by generalized Prandtl-Ishlinskii model. In addition, a comparison between the dead zone function-based rate-dependent Prandtl-Ishlinskii model as an only benchmark model and the proposed models have been done that proves the proposed models’ superiority. In addition, genetic algorithm is exploited to identify unknown parameters of all models. Trained models performance is also experimentally evaluated at different input frequencies. Comparison between simulation and experimental results indicates that the proposed models can reliably predict saturated, asymmetric, rate-dependent hysteresis behavior, and minor loops in shape memory alloy–embedded actuators.