Dynamic Equivalent Load Simulation Using Smart Actuators

Abstract

Smart actuator has been gaining momentum as a replacement to conventional actuator due its light weight, optimal rigidity, high performance actuation and low complexity in manufacturing and functioning. This paper presents in detail a prevue of problems arising in this area. Smart actuator is the one which acts both as sensor and as well as actuator. In this current work we deal with the use of Macro Fiber Composite (MFC)of different dimensions and properties in arriving at the given task. The deflections of certain mode shapes of MFC are of keen importance in practical applicability like Wing Morphing and Stiffening of Structures, precision valve actuation, health monitoring. The present work emphasizes on the use of smart actuator in studying both the static and dynamic characteristics of the given cantilever plate structure. In order to understand the structural behavior, it is essential to understand the capability and response of the MFC alone. Later the effect of MFC bonded on the structure is analyzed. The influence of input voltage on MFC is studied and the dynamic equivalent load simulation using smart actuator is presented. Structural displacements are validated for both mechanical loading and equivalent forcing voltage. Dynamic loads such as sinusoidal and other wave forms are applied and the results are matched with the respective dynamic equivalent voltage induced deflections. To achieve this, the scale factor for the given geometry and boundary conditions is computed and the same was used in validating for different loading conditions. This paper presents in detail the complete procedure to obtain the scale factor in extracting exact results that can be practically experimented on a real time structural problem.