Experimental investigation on adaptive concrete slabs equipped with integrated fluidic actuators

One possible approach for saving structural mass and related emissions is to design adaptive load-bearing structures, i.e. actively reducing deformations under changing loads through actuation. This paper describes the application of a methodology based on influence matrices to identify a feasible actuator size for actuator placement in reinforced concrete slabs under multiple load cases. The design is implemented in a physical prototype comprising a concrete slab with a clear span of 2 m x 2 m, being equipped with fluidic actuators that are controlled via a cascade controller. Experimental tests show that the displacement response of the adaptive slab under twice the design load can be kept equal to that of the passive slab under the design load. Thus, proof of concept is provided that considerable material savings can be achieved by employing integrated fluidic actuators in two-way slabs.