Large deformation finite element analyses of composite structures integrated with piezoelectric sensors and actuators

Nonlinear dynamic responses of structures integrated with piezoelectric mat erials are studied. Finite element formulations are derived on the basis of the updated Lagrangian formulation and the principle of virtual work. Twen ty-node solid elements including electrical degrees of freedom are develope d to analyze structures with piezoelectric sensors and actuators and multip oint constraints for electrical degrees of freedom are utilized to simulate electrodes. A limited number of numerical examples are presented in order to verify the accuracy and convergence of the present formulation and to de monstrate its usefulness for and applicability to solutions of large deform ation dynamic responses of piezoelectric structures. (C) 2000 Elsevier Scie nce B.V. All rights reserved.