Dynamic response control of cantilevers to time-dependent external excitations using optimal feedback control and smart materials technology

The problem of controlling the dynamic response of cantilevers exposed to blast loading is addressed. The structure to be controlled consists of a thin-walled beam of a closed cross-section contour which encompasses a number of non-classical features such as transverse shear, primary and secondary warping and anisotropy of the constitutent materials. The control is achieved via the use of the directionality property featured by advanced composite materials and of the actuating capabilities provided by piezoelectric devices which are bonded or embedded into the host structure. The cases of the piezoactuators spread over the entire span of the structure or in the form of a patch are considered, and issues related with the influence of the patch location upon the control efficiency are discussed. Other issues related with the minimization of the input power required, and implications of the limitation of control input voltage are also addressed.