Finite element modeling of composite piezoelectric structures with MSC/NASTRAN

Techniques for modeling structures containing piezoelectric ceramics with MSC/NASTRAN are presented, Unlike other finite element programs such as ANSYS: and ABAQUS, MSC/NASTRAN offers no piezoelectric coupled-field elements with which to model smart structures directly. Rather, the analogy between piezoelectric strain and thermally induced strain! which allows temperature change to model piezoelectric voltage actuation, must be used, The application and limitations of this method will be discussed. To overcome some of the limitations in modeling piezoelectric effects with tile thermal analogy, one and two dimensional finite elements which include piezoelectric coupling were developed and integrated into MSC/NASTRAN as dummy elements. The dummy elements offer an alternative method for modeling piezoelectric structural members. As actuators, the elements support charge and voltage actuation in both static and dynamic analyses, When used as sensors. both strain and strain rate outputs are supported. The elements call be used for modal, transient, and frequency response solutions and facilitate combined thermal and piezoelectric loading.