On the elastic wave propagation induced by a network of piezoelectric actuators

Summary.

 This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the two-dimensional wave propagation in an elastic medium induced by embedded multiple piezoceramic actuators. Based on a new actuator model, which involves the deformation in both the transverse and longitudinal directions of the actuator, the actuation process and the dynamic load transfer between multiple actuators and the host medium is studied. The formulation of the problem is established using the analytical solution of the single actuator problem and a pseudo-incident wave method. Detailed numerical simulation is conducted to study the electroelastic behavior of this composite system. Attention is focussed on the properties of generated waveforms for different actuator arrangements.