The paper describes the development of distributed-element models for non-l
inear hysteresis in materials and structures. The physical model is based o
n an approach that views the system as comprising a series of ideal elastop
lastic elements. Parameter identification, numerical simulation and inversi
on of the model through the application of the Preisach model for hysteresi
s are discussed. Experimentally obtained data using Nitinol are compared wi
th the model prediction, thus establishing the effectiveness of distributed
-element Preisach elements for predicting complex hysteresis effects includ
ing high-order hysteresis transition curves.