The magnetostrictive mini-actuator (MMA), with its unique characteristics such as large strain, high force and high energy density, is potentially a new claw of actuator most suitable for distributed actuator applications such as vibration control of smart structures. This paper presents a theoretical framework, validated experimentally, to develop an MMA and its feasibility for vibration control. Based on two-dimensional thermal analysis, the general form of thermoelastic mathematical model for characterizing magnetostrictive-based actuators is proposed and experimentally validated. Thermal effects, at other than the initial state, are' shown to have a significant effect on attainable strain and force of an MMA. Experimental results show that the MMA has good static and dynamic performance. and is suitable for applications in smart structures.

This paper investigates the feasibility of using embedded magnetostrictive mini actuators (MMA) for smart structure applications, such as vibration suppression of beams. A cantilever beam, embedded with MMA and subjected to free vibration was chosen for this work. Based on the Euler-Bernoulli beam theory and the magneto-thennoelastic theory of MMA, an integrated mathematical model of the beam embedded with MMA is developed. The attenuation in attainable strain of the actuator due to embedding is investigated for two cases: pure bending and combined extension-bending actuation. Simulation, usino an oDen-looD control-scheme. shows that it is Dossible to attenuate the vibraiion by embebding MMA in the beam.

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