Finite element analysis and design of piezoelectric controlled smart structures

The paper gives an overview of about recent developments in modeling, numerical analysis and design of piezoelectric controlled smart structures. Then, the theoretical basis of a general purpose finite element simulation tool developed by the authors is presented. This tool contains a number of coupled thermo-electro-mechanical 1D, 2D, 3D as well as layered plate and shell finite elements for simulating controlled structures in static and dynamic applications, where also optimization algorithms (e.g. for actuator location) can be included. Finally, three examples; i.e., actively controlled beam, vibration isolation of a box, and vibration isolation of a plate as part of an excited cylinder structure, are presented to demonstrate the capability and efficiency of the simulation and design tool.