Distributed structural actuation with electrostrictors

In this paper a non-linear framework is developed of the dynamic behavior of a system with distributed electrostrictive coupling. A framework for the derivation of the governing equations is presented which is sufficiently general to model the dynamics of a broad range of non-linear systems. The constitutive relations for electrostrictors are developed in terms of the standard quadratic function and the hyperbolic tangent squared function of the applied electric field. Non-linear coupled equations of motion are derived by introducing the constitutive relations into Hamilton's Principle. Approximate system equations are derived using the assumed mode method. Experimental validation of the equations is accomplished by examining the static and dynamic response of a cantilevered beam actuated with a distributed electrostrictive actuator. (C) 1997 Academic Press Limited.