Modelling of a hybrid constrained layer/piezoceramic approach to active damping

It has been shown that significant reductions in structural vibration levels can be achieved using a hybrid system involving constrained layer damping and active control with piezoceramics. In this paper mathematical models based on the Rayleigh Ritz approach, are developed to describe the longitudinal and flexural vibration behaviour of a cantilevered beam when excited using piezoceramic patches bonded to a constrained layer damping treatment. Predictions of static and steady state dynamic behaviour, obtained using the models are validated by comparison with results from finite element analysis and laboratory experiments. The models are then used in open loop and closed loop velocity feedback control simulations to demonstrate the improvements in stability and performance achieved using this method over that achieved using conventional active control.