Smart structures-Modeling and applications

Smart structures must adapt to their environment. Piezoelectric ceramics have proved to be effective as both sensors and actuators for a wide variety of applications. Realistic simulation models are needed that can predict the performance of smart structures that incorporate piezoceramics. A hybrid finite element method in conjunction with a boundary element technique is used to model the fields in and around a smart structure containing piezoceramic elements on an immersed structure. Numerical simulation can be used as a design tool for engineering smart materials. Experimental applications to the adaptive control of space and automobile structures, active sonar absorbers and vibration and radiated noise are reviewed