Embedded distributed piezoelectric actuators for adaptive structures

摘要

Abstract: This article reports on the continued development of an embedded distributed piezoelectric actuator design concept for adaptive structures. The design is motivated by the fact that distributed actuators, as opposed to discrete actuators, will have a major impact on the implementation of modal control of flexible structures. The system under investigation is composed of layers of bimorph piezoelectric actuators, each activating a different mode in the structure. The article encompasses the discussion of theory for a multi-layered structure made of distributed actuators, computer aided modeling and simulations, experimental modal analysis, and correlation analysis. It is shown that the proposed arrangement of actuators removes the limitations associated with actuators' spillover and has the capability of activating desired modes. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the experimental results for the mode shapes correlated well with those of the computer simulations.!14