| A Finite Element Method (FEM) Solver has been developed to analyze three-dimensional structures with piezoelectric materials. Eight and twenty node brick elements, capable of simulating linear elastic and linear piezoelectric structures, are derived. The constitutive equations are presented in this thesis. A linear material matrix is derived from the thermodynamic principles and evaluated for PZT-5A. Our model assumes static conditions and the deformation of the structure occurs due to the effect that the electric field has over the displacement field by means of the polarization of the material. This thesis concentrates on the performance of actuated fiber composites (AFC). The FEM Solver also permits analysis of the sensing mechanisms typically used in piezoelectric structures. The data obtained from the model allow us to optimize the placement of piezoelectric patches on non-metallic matrices. Strain, stress, electric and displacement field are presented and compared to analytical results and experimental data. The use of this FEM solver allows for the understanding of the behavior of piezoelectric materials and actuated fiber composites (AFC) and their applications. |
