Abstract
2D actuator composite structures are fabricated of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) and Al2O3 building blocks with an epoxy resin matrix. This novel modular concept gives the possibility to create complex geometric structures where the structure itself tailors the physical properties. To improve the possibilities of excitation or loading and determine the influence of the geometric parameters as slenderness ratio t2 · g−1 and active area Aactive finite element (FE) simulations are used. The stress distribution σyy within the unit cell and the resulting strain amplification ay are tested with different mechanically coupled thermal excitation modes. A homogeneous excitation of the PZT building blocks and a maximum Aactive of 24% led to a maximum of strain amplification and a reduction of induced tensile stresses. In addition, zero deformation could be generated by modifying the structure design with a slenderness ratio of 0.5. Further geometric variations offer the potential to increase the strain amplification.
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