Analysis on Static Character of Piezoelectric Tubular Composite Actuator

Abstract

The static character of piezoelectric composite actuator with four tubes is studied. Taking into account the non-uniform electric field distribution in piezoelectric tube, the bending deflection, axial strain, output axial force and bending moment are discussed. The results calculated by proposed method are compared to that calculated by traditional thin wall theory and the proposed method is more accurate and reasonable. A prototype actuator was fabricated and tested to validate the theory results. The theoretic result and tested results agree well with each other. This research provides theoretical guidance and basis for the design of piezoelectric tubular composites actuators.