Detailed Models of Piezoceramic Actuation of Beams

In this paper, techniques for modeling induced strain actuation of beam-like components of intelligent structures are developed. Two analytical models and one numer ical model describing the detailed mechanics of induced strain actuators bonded to and embedded in one-dimensional structures are presented. The models illustrate the exten sion, bending, and localized shearing deformations induced. The range of parameters for which the simpler analytic models are valid is also established. The specific characteris tics of one type of induced strain actuator, piezoceramic materials, are discussed, and im plications for practical use of piezoceramic actuators are outlined. Experimental results are used to validate the beam actuation models presented.