Efficient coupled refined finite element for dynamic analysis of sandwich beams containing embedded shear-mode piezoelectric layers

Abstract

ABSTRACTAn efficient and computationally low cost finite element (FE) model is developed for dynamic free and forced response of sandwich beams with embedded shear piezoelectric layers based on a coupled refined high-order global-local theory. Contrary to most of the available models, all of the kinematic and stress boundary conditions are ensured at the interfaces of the shear piezoelectric layers. Moreover, both the electrical-induced strains components and transverse flexibility are taken into account for the first time in the present theory. For validation of the proposed model, various free and forced vibration tests for thin and thick sandwich beams are carried out. For various electrical and mechanical boundary conditions, excellent agreement has been found between the results obtained from the proposed formulation with previously published and the coupled two-dimensional (2D) FE results.