A finite element model for shape memory behavior

This paper deals with a finite element implementation concerning the shape memory behavior. Shape memory behavior is usually driven by temperature changes. This model allows the simulation of problems integrating complex mechanical loading effects under random temperature variations. According to the relationship between stress and strain, the shape fixation during cooling phases and the memory effect during heating phase are modelised through a hereditary behavior needing incremental formulation developments. The step by step process introduces an additional fixed stress. Simulations request, for complex geometries including boundary conditions, a finite element approach. Thermodynamic developments are presented in order to define energetic balance and dissipations. In this paper, we propose to generalize this dependence of elastic modulus variations. A formulation for random mechanical loading and temperature variations is proposed. An experimental validation is proposed about shape memory alloy polymer DP5.