Abstract. The present paper demonstrates the effect of axial forces on smart columns that have adhesively bonded piezoelectric skins on substrates. Exact solutions for the piezolaminated columns have been presented. The solutions have been validated through experimental studies. The objectives of the present work are (1) to show the effect of axial force on sensing and actuation mechanisms of piezoelectric materials and (2) to demonstrate the active control of column type structures using these materials. In the experimental work, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) films have been used as smart skins on a plastic substrate. PVDF films are shaped corresponding to the first mode shape of the cantilever column to ensure proportional sensing and actuation.

Print publication: Issue 4 (August 2005)
Received 16 January 2004, in final form 3 October 2004
Published 8 April 2005