A refined one-dimensional model for the nonlinear analysis of smart structures

The development of smart structures involves the use of thin structures with high flexibility in most applications. The analysis and design of these structures pose several problems from the point of view of the numeric models to be used. First, the structures are often laminated since the active material is commonly applied as a patch on a substrate with a structural function. The second di culty is posed by the various physics involved in the problem that create complex deformation elds. Ultimately, the high exibility of the structures often results in nonlinear problems because of the large deformations involved. Classical numerical models often cannot address the challenges just listed, so the use of solid models is the only option available to designers. This paper proposes the use of advanced beam models for non-linear analysis of multilayer structures with piezoelectric inserts. The use of the Carrera Uni ed Formulation has enabled the development of a coupled formulation for electro-mechanical problems, and the use of advanced kinematic models has enabled quasi-3D solutions ensuring an excellent solution in both linear and nonlinear domains. The present model has been assessed by comparing the results with those found in the literature. Both actuator and sensor con gurations were considered. The results show that geometric nonlinearities can play a key role in the performance evaluation of smart structures, and it is necessary to consider them in order to achieve an effective design.