Piezoelectric Actuator Modeling Using MSC/NASTRAN and MATLAB

ABSTRACT This paper presents a procedure for modeling structures containing piezoelectric actuators using MSCNASTRAN and MATLAB. The paper describes the utility and functionality of one set of validated modeling tools. The tools described herein use MSC/NASTRAN to model the structure with piezoelectric actuators and a thermally induced strain to model straining of the actuators due to an applied voltage field. MATLAB scripts are used to assemble the dynamic equations and to generate frequency response functions. The application of these tools is discussed using a cantilever aluminum beam with a surface mounted piezoelectric actuator as a sample problem. Software in the form of MSC/NASTRAN DMAP input commands, MATLAB scripts, and a step-by-step procedure to solve the example problem are provided. Analysis results are generated in terms of frequency response functions from deflection and strain data as a function of input voltage to the actuator. INTRODUCTION NASA Langley Research Center, Industry, and Academia have been actively studying and developing induced strain actuation devices for aircraft and aerospace applications since the late