Modeling of Finite-Length Spatially-Distributed Induced Strain Actuators for Laminate Beams and Plates

Abstract

A model for laminate beams and plates with attached or embedded finite- length spatially-distributed induced strain actuators has been formulated and is presented. A conservation of strain-energy model was developed by equaling the applied moment on the cross section of the edges of actuators to determine the induced linear strain distribu tion and the equivalent axial force and bending moment induced by the actuators. Results show that the strain-energy model for a thin laminate beam agrees well with the pin-force madel. In addition, more general conditions were included in this work; for example, mul tiple actuators can be embedded in any layer of laminate. The concept of the conservation of strain-energy model for beams was also extended to a two-dimensional problem- plates. Classical laminate plate theory for spatially-distributed induced strain actuators de veloped previously by the authors is revised here to include the use of the strain-energy model. This work also compares several developed models and a fnite element formula tion. A simple approach to the application of induced strain actuators to the vibration and noise control of laminate beams and plates is provided.