Analysis of primal and dual variables in structural shape control by piezoelectric patches using solid-shell finite elements

Abstract

This paper presents an assessment of the performances of new piezoelectric solid−shell finite elements. Compared to conventional solid and shell elements, the solid–shell concept reveals to be very attractive, due to a number of well-established advantages and computational capabilities. This paper focuses on two element formulations, denoted SHB15E and SHB20E, which represent a quadratic prismatic solid−shell element and its hexahedral counterpart, respectively. The current analysis consists in an evaluation of primal and dual variables during the process of shape control of structures. The interest in this solid–shell approach is shown through a set of selective and representative plate and shell benchmark problems. The results obtained by the proposed formulations are compared with those given by state-of-the-art piezoelectric elements available in ABAQUS.