Dynamic stability analysis and control of a composite beam with piezoelectric layers

A slender laminated composite beam with piezoelectric layers subjected to axial periodic compressive loads is considered. The dynamic stability behaviors of the laminated composite beam are investigated. The top and bottom piezoelectric layers act as actuators. The beam is restrained at both ends, and the piezoelectric actuators induce in-plane stresses affecting the dynamic behavior of the beam. The stress stiffening effects on the dynamic stability of the beam with piezoelectric layers are examined. While the top piezoelectric layer acts as an actuator, the bottom layer works as a sensor. A simple negative velocity feedback control algorithm that couples the direct and converse piezoelectric effects is employed to actively control the dynamic response of the beam through a closed control loop. The influence of the feedback control gain on the response of the beam is evaluated. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.