Multimodal vibration of cantilever plate: study on optimal shape of PZT actuator

Abstract Geometry of the plate and natural frequencies are crucial in determining optimal location for mounting asymmetric piezoelectric actuator (a-PZT) to reduce vibration. This paper presents a theory that identifies the point where a-PZT should be located when plate vibrates with multiple mode shapes. The modelling approach allows for clear indication of asymmetry in a-PZT shape. Such a-PZT provides maximum multimodal vibration reduction efficiency. Results show evolution of optimal a-PZT depending on the number of modes forced simultaneously and point at which excitation force is applied. The paper also shows that it is possible to significantly reduce multimodal vibration by using a single PZT with asymmetrical shape and specific position on the plate.