Optimal distributed actuator design for control of beams

Distributed systems such as cables, beams, plates, etc., are widely used in many electro-mechanical devices. The efficiency of such devices largely depends on precise dynamics of the structural components, as in micro-electro-mechanical (MEMs) devices. Therefore, better sensing of the dynamics of such components and thereafter necessary actuation are the keys to increase precision of such devices. This work designs an optimal distributed actuator of a linear beam using its vibration modes. General boundary conditions are considered with a finite element frame work so that the transducer design is applicable for any vibrating beam. Piezoelectric composites are considered as actuators and the signal is considered proportional to the excited response of the targeted mode for optimization. Finally, the optimal shaped transducer is used to control an externally excited beam with cantilever boundary condition. The voltage inputs required to control shaped modal actuator is compared with a regular rectangular shaped piezoelectric actuator. Results are reported at the end. Copyright (C) 2022 The Authors.