Modeling and shape control of composite beams with embedded piezoelectric actuators

A mathematical model based on a layerwise theory is developed for laminated composite beams with piezoelectric actuators. The one-dimensional beam formulation also accounts for lateral strains. A finite element model is developed. Voltages applied to the actuators are assumed to be specified. The accuracy of the model and the computer code is validated with the available solutions in the literature. Various parametric studies are conducted to demonstrate the influence of boundary conditions, ply orientation, etc., on the change in shapes of laminated beams with piezoelectric actuators. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.