Modeling and testing of plate structures using self-sensing piezoelectric transducers

Electromechanical modeling of a structure is used to position piezoelectric elements and to devise readout networks for their use as self-sensing transducers. The positioning is aimed to act selectively on given vibration modes and is carried on by means of simple spatial filtering techniques. The piezoelectric readout network is implemented using active components to avoid the coupling between mechanical and electrical states usually found with passive circuits. The proposed layout is well suited for both the testing and the active control of smart structures.