Finite element simulation of dynamic responses of piezoelectric actuators

A finite element approach to the simulation of the dynamic responses of piezoelectric motors and actuators is presented. The time responses of three-dimensional piezoelectric structures are considered. The discretized equations of motion are developed and solved by using the Newmark-beta integration scheme with respect to time. Some numerical examples include a piezoelectric ring motor and linear actuator, and their transient responses are demonstrated together with the steady state responses. (C) 1996 Academic Press Limited