Algorithm for the layout of a piezoelectric element in an elastic medium providing the maximal piezoelectric effect within a specified frequency range

Abstract

An algorithm for the layout of a piezoelectric that provides the most efficient performance within a specified range of vibration frequencies is proposed in this paper. This algorithm is based on the consideration of a special parameter within the area of a piezoelectric element’s possible location. This parameter characterizes the superposition of electromechanical coupling coefficients’ for all the natural vibration frequencies included in a specified frequency range. The condition for defining the best option for location of the piezoelectric element in the case of several equivalent positions is specified. The efficiency of the proposed algorithm is shown numerically. The electromechanical coupling coefficients were calculated numerically based on solution to the problem of natural vibrations for electroelastic bodies using a finite element method. The calculations were performed to define the best location for a single piezoelectric element at the surface of a thin-walled shell having a half-cylindrical shape. The results are presented for natural vibration frequencies within the frequency range from 0 up to 1100 Hz. The numerical results were obtained by solving the problem of natural vibrations with a finite element method using the ANSYS software package.

Keywords

• piezoelectric element’s layout
• natural vibrations
• continuous frequency range
• electromechanical coupling coefficient