An efficient computational model for the stress analysis of smart plate structures

A variable kinematic finite element (VKFE) model based on a hierarchical, multiple assumed displacement field is combined with the mesh superposition technique to determine local stress fields in surface-bonded piezoelectric actuated plates. The displacement field hierarchy contains both a conventional 2D plate expansion and the full layerwise expansion of Reddy. The combination of VKFE and the mesh superposition technique further increases the computational efficiency and robustness of the computational algorithm to accurately determine local stress fields and global response. An example is given for an aluminum plate.