Numerical simulation of smart laminated plate under impact

The use of laminated composites in impact prone locations on aircraft and spacecraft has led to research in the use of smart materials to counteract these loads and reduce damage. A numerical simulation of impact sensing in smart laminated plates is discussed in this report. A finite element code, capable of simulating low velocity transverse impacts of laminated composite plates, is modified for simulating a laminated plate containing piezoceramic sensors. Linear piezoelectric constitutive relations are used to calculate the electric field generated by the embedded piezoceramic patches. The results of several numerical simulations show that piezoelectric patches near the impact point can alter the impact loading. The average electric field generated by piezoelectric patches is dependent on the location, size and shape of the piezoelectric patch. The initial growth of the electric field is directly related to the distance between the impact point and the piezoelectric patch.