An investigation of piezoelectric smart composites using a coupled piezoelectric-mechanical model

A two-way piezoelectric-mechanical coupled theory is used to investigate the multiple field interactions of composite laminates with surface-bonded piezoelectric actuators and sensors. A higher order electrical potential field is used to accurately describe the nonuniform distribution of electric potential through the thickness of piezoelectric layers. A higher order laminate theory is used to describe the displacement fields of both composite laminate and piezoelectric layers to accurately model transverse shear deformation which is significant in moderately thick constructions. A finite element model is developed to implement the theory. The results obtained using this coupled theory are compared with those obtained using an uncoupled theory. Numerical results indicate that the thickness ratio of piezoelectric layer to plate structure is a critical parameter that determines the significance of coupling effects. The coupled piezoelectric-mechanical theory is capable of accurately modeling the characteristics of thick piezoelectric layers. Furthermore, the effects on multiple actuators, sensors and control authority due to the two-way coupling are also studied.