Optimization of piezoactuator configuration in control of flexible structures

In order to find the optimum dimensions and locations of piezoactuators in the active control systems, a novel procedure for simultaneous dimension an d location optimization of piezoactuators for active control of flexible st ructures is introduced. Three optimization criteria are investigated and co mpared which leads to an optimal configuration of the actuators particularl y relevant when the weight and geometry limitations are important. In the f irst criterion we seek a configuration of the piezoactuator which maximizes the overall damping ratio of the closed loop system. Minimization of the o verall real part of eigenvalues of the controlled system is the second crit erion. For the third criterion, we seek the minimum LQR cost function over possible dimensions and locations. The optimization indicates that the best configuration of piezoactuators in active control systems is the shortest and widest.