Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2002
This article proposes a methodology of design adapted to the optimal dimensioning of piezoelectricactuators. The study relates to a heterogeneous bimorph bar working in bending quasi-static mode. First an analyticalmodel of the bimorph is established on the basis of classically allowed assumptions in theory of the beams andpiezoelectricity. The field of validity of this model is then specified by comparison with a computer code by finiteelements. Moreover the results obtained are validated and refined using measurementsrealised on a model of bimorph. The developed model is then exploited within a procedure ofautomated dimensioning founded on the implementation of a new method of Global Optimization.The possibilities of the developed method are finally illustrated through the dimensioning ofa particular piezoelectric actuator intended for a vibratory magnetometric equipment.