On the characterization of piezoelectric actuators attached to structures

Basic material properties, such as the piezoelectric constant, Young's modulus, electro-mechanical coupling factor and dielectric constant etc, are often applied to describe the quality of piezoelectric materials. For piezoelectric actuators attached to structures in practical applications, more straightforward parameters like actuating force, mechanical power output, conversion efficiency between electric and mechanical energy are also imperative to characterize applicability and efficiency of the actuators. They are particularly discussed in this paper. It is found that the parameters are not only relevant to the basic piezoelectric material properties and the structural mechanical impedance, but also dependent on the configuration of the piezoelectric actuators and the initial dynamic states of actuated structures as well. It is indicated that the configuration requires attention to be paid in the design of piezoelectric actuators. It may essentially change the parameters, and thus alter the actuator applicability and efficiency.