Finite element analysis of composite structures with smart constrained layer damping

In the present study, the finite element formulation is proposed for the dynamic analysis of smart composite structures. Based on visco-piezoelectricity, the numerical procedures are developed to analyze dynamic responses of composite structures with piezoelectric sensors and actuators as well as viscoelastic damping layers. A solid element with Allman's rotation is used since it is more efficient for structures of arbitrary shape and can avoid compatibility discrepancies between plate and solid elements. Numerical examples are presented in order to verify the accuracy convergence of the present formulation and to demonstrate its usefulness for and applicability to solutions of dynamic responses of smart structures. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.