Masters Theses

Date of Award

5-2003

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Aerospace Engineering

Major Professor

Arnold Lumsdaine

Committee Members

J.A.M Boulet, Frank H. Speckhart, Charles Collins

Abstract

This study investigates the optimal topology for a piezoelectric actuator under a static load. The project consists of two major parts: implementation of the control law into the commercial finite element code ABAQUS and studies in topology optimization. The first part gives a thorough derivation and explanation of the implementation of static feedback control and dynamic proportional and derivative control. The result is compared with results published in the literature. The second part examines the results of topology optimization with different geometries and constraints. Thus, this study develops fundamental understanding of advantageous shapes for optimal performing piezoelectric actuators.

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