Experimental Investigation of Smart Hull Structures Based on Macro Fiber Composite Actuators

In the present paper, the dynamic characteristics of smart hull structure are investigated for the feasibility of Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) actuator in active vibration control of smart hull structure. MFC is an advanced anisotropic piezoceramic actuator. Finite element technique was used to ensure application to practical geometry and boundary conditions of smart hull structure. Using finite element method, modal analysis and strain distribution were first conducted to investigate dynamic characteristics of smart hull structure. Based on numerical modal analysis, the locations of MFC actuators are determined to achieve maximum control authority. Then, the MFC actuators are attached to the hull structure and natural frequencies and damping coefficients are identified through experimental modal test.