Multi-field variational formulations and related finite elements for piezoelectric shells

Smart structures technology characterized by structurally integrated sensors and actuators has recently expanded significantly especially as regards lightweight constructions in aeronautics and robotics, e.g. to allow vibration suppression and noise attenuation. In order to be capable of solving these complex issues the finite element method as a well established design tool has to be extended. This paper focuses on shallow sandwich composite shell structures with thin piezoelectric patches bonded to the surfaces. For the proper design of plate and shell structures with integrated piezoelectric materials, various variational formulations and corresponding finite elements are presented. The starting point is the well known two-field variational formulation where the linear piezoelectric effect is taken into account so that the displacements and the electric potential serve as independent variables. Here, the mostly assumed linear variation of the electric potential through the thickness is assumed. Next, it is shown that a quadratic variation of the electric potential through the thickness can be deduced directly from the charge conservation condition. This quadratic variation of the electric potential in the thickness direction is compared with the linear gradient of the first two-field variational formulation. Moreover, in order to allow the implementation of alternative formulations of the constitutive equations by switching of the independent variables and nonlinear material behaviour, a three-field variational formulation is presented in analogy to the Hu–Washizu principle. Adopting this variational principle a hybrid finite element is derived where the dielectric displacement is formulated as an additional degree of freedom. This independent variable can be condensed on the element level and does not enter the system of equations. For the first time all these different variational formulations are developed for a Reissner–Mindlin shallow shell element formulation and compared with each other.