Active Control of Structures Subject to Large Temperature Variations Using Piezoceramic Actuators

Abstract

Tne effect that temperature dependant piezoceramic properties have on the active vibration control of a light flexible structure can be of considerable importance in reallife systems. Piezoelectric properties can vary significantly with moderate changes in temperature, hence affecting their control authority. By varying the operating temperature of a flexible structure (cantilever beam) fitted with piezoceramic actuators, this investigation explores the influence of temperature on the damping and natural frequency of the system using velocity feedback control. Experimental results show the dynamic properties of the system are not only dependent on the piezoceramics variation with temperature, but additionally on the type of adhesive used to bond the ceramics to the structure. This can causes significant nonlinear behaviour in system damping. These results indicate that for systems operating over a large temperature range, unless adequate pre-thought is employed, unanticipated damping and control characteristics may arise.