Novel metamaterial platform with piezoelectric sensors for self-sensing mechanical support

Abstract

In the last two decades, the field of mechanical engineering has seen growing interest in the development and utilisation of mechanical metamaterials. Artificially designed materials are intended to alter the mechanical properties of structures significantly, thereby enhancing their resilience, adaptability, and efficiency. This research focuses not only on strengthening structural strength and durability but also on enabling structural health monitoring and vibration mitigation. Modern computational modelling, with coupled-field analysis, allows engineers to design smart systems that integrate piezoelectric elements into complex geometric structures. These smart piezoelectric elements, here embedded in auxetic reentrant unit cells, offer valuable insights into the behaviour of the host structure under various conditions. This integration facilitates the assessment of electromechanical responses, thereby enabling the development of more intelligent and responsive structural systems. The current research focuses on developing a computational model and creating experimental prototypes for self-sensing mechanical support. This support serves as a load-bearing element of the host structure while simultaneously enabling the generation of vibrational signals in response to external stimuli. Piezoceramic elements enable the support to function as a sensor, detecting external forces or environmental vibrations. Additionally, this structure opens new possibilities for studying mechanical vibration attenuation and the temporal decay of vibrations. The combination of advanced metamaterial design, computational tools, and integrated smart materials creates a new approach for structural health monitoring and vibration attenuation. Ultimately, such a system aims to develop a better understanding of sustainable structures that can adapt to and respond to their environment while maintaining optimal structural rigidity and functionality.