Finite element modelling of macro fiber composite with interdigitated electrode for engineering applications

Smart structures with Macro fiber composite (MFC) piezoelectric actuators have been increasingly applied in engineering. A simple but elaborate finite element model of the smart structures not only can predict vibration dynamics, but also can reduce challenges and computational expense in engineering application. Therefore, a simplified FEM developed to model MFC with interdigitated electrodes (IDEs) is proposed in this paper. A new scheme of FEM for IDEs in MFC is presented. With assuming the poling direction is along the same direction and voltage-progressive electrodes configuration in FEM, the piezoelectric elements employ an equivalent periodic tensile/compressive strain and constant electric potential in the poling direction. Numerical tests of free strain and blocking force and experimental methods are both employed to verify the FEM in this paper. A cantilever aluminum beam with a single MFC actuator is presented. The natural frequencies, vertical deflection and Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC) based on the resonant frequencies show the fidelity of the EF model agree well with experimental measurement. This work presented provides a novel FEM to model MFC for engineering applications such as vibration actuation.