TY - GEN
T1 - Improved modeling of C-block actuators
AU - Mitchell, Lori A.
AU - Gu, Haozhong
AU - Chattopadhyay, Aditi
PY - 1997/12/1
Y1 - 1997/12/1
N2 - A new class of bimorph actuators, called C-block actuators for their curved shape, have recently been proposed to provide improved performance characteristics over conventional straight bimorph actuators. Existing mathematical models of these actuators are based on classical curved beam theory which neglects transverse shear effects. The paper presents an improved mathematical model for C-block actuators of arbitrary thickness. The new model accounts for through-the-thickness transverse shear deformations using refined displacement fields. The results from this theory are compared to the existing classical model and experimental data. Both free and forced end conditions are investigated. An exact elasticity solution is also developed which provides a framework for comparison of the developed theory and other approximate theories.
AB - A new class of bimorph actuators, called C-block actuators for their curved shape, have recently been proposed to provide improved performance characteristics over conventional straight bimorph actuators. Existing mathematical models of these actuators are based on classical curved beam theory which neglects transverse shear effects. The paper presents an improved mathematical model for C-block actuators of arbitrary thickness. The new model accounts for through-the-thickness transverse shear deformations using refined displacement fields. The results from this theory are compared to the existing classical model and experimental data. Both free and forced end conditions are investigated. An exact elasticity solution is also developed which provides a framework for comparison of the developed theory and other approximate theories.
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M3 - Conference contribution
AN - SCOPUS:0031356696
SN - 0819424544
T3 - Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
SP - 470
EP - 481
BT - Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
PB - Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers
T2 - Smart Structures and Materials 1997: Smart Structures and Integrated Systems
Y2 - 3 March 1997 through 6 March 1997
ER -