Integration issues for high-strain actuation applications

Strain actuators, used to induce a relative structural displacement, are most effective when integrally embedded into the host structure. The paper summarizes progress and challenges in the field of embedding smart materials into structures. The difficulties of embedding active elements within composite structures are described from a system design perspective. Issues associated with the application of strain actuators in primary aircraft structure are discussed. Development of new embedding technology to combat the difficulties with high strain applications is advocated.