Dual boundary element model of 3D piezoelectric smart structures

In this paper, the application of the dual boundary element method (DBEM) in the field of structural health monitoring (SHM) is explored. The model involves a 3D host structure, which is formulated by the DBEM in the Laplace domain, and 3D piezoelectric transducers, whose finite element model is derived from the electro-mechanical behaviour of piezoelectricity. The piezoelectric transducers and the host structure are coupled together via BEM variables. The practicability of this method in active sensing applications is demonstrated through comparisons with established FEM and parametric studies.