A mixed multi-field finite element formulation for thermopiezoelectric composite shells

Analytical formulations are presented which account for the coupled mechani cal, electrical, and thermal response of piezoelectric composite shell stru ctures. A new mixed multi-field laminate theory is developed which combines "single layer" assumptions for the displacements along with layerwise fiel ds for the electric potential and temperature. This laminate theory is form ulated using curvilinear coordinates and is based on the principles of line ar thermopiezoelectricity. The mechanics has the inherent capability to exp licitly model both the active and sensory responses of piezoelectric compos ite shells in thermal environments. Finite element equations are derived an d implemented for an eight-noded shell element. Numerical studies are condu cted to investigate both the sensory and active responses of piezoelectric composite shell structures subjected to thermal loads. Results for a cantil evered plate with an attached piezoelectric layer are compared with corresp onding results from a commercial finite element code and a previously devel oped program. Additional studies are conducted on a cylindrical shell with an attached piezoelectric layer to demonstrate capabilities to achieve ther mal shape control on curved piezoelectric structures. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.