Development of novel piezoceramic modules for adaptive thermoplastic composite structures capable for series production

The use of adaptive composite structures in series applications requires novel actuators and related manufacture processes capable for serial production. The paper shows latest research results with regard to the continuous development of novel thermoplastic-compatible piezoceramic modules (TPM). These modules are predestined for the material homogeneous actuator integration in fibre-reinforced thermoplastic composites by means of a welding process. The research focuses on numerical and experimental studies in order to design efficient modules capable for a continuous production process. Especially studies with regard to geometrical parameters and their influences on the actuator performance as well as studies with respect to the manufacture process are accomplished. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.