Optimization Criteria for Optimal Placement of Piezoelectric Sensors and Actuators on a Smart Structure: A Technical Review

This article presents in a unified way, the various optimization criteria used by researchers for optimal placement of piezoelectric sensors and actuators on a smart structure. The article discusses optimal placement of piezoelectric sensors and actuators based upon six criteria: (i) maximizing modal forces/moments applied by piezoelectric actuators, (ii) maximizing deflection of the host structure, (iii) minimizing control effort/maximizing energy dissipated, (iv) maximizing degree of controllability, (v) maximizing degree of observability, and (vi) minimizing spill-over effects. Optimal piezoelectric sensor and actuator locations on beam and plate structures for each criterion and modes of interest are presented in a tabular form. This technical review has two objectives: (i) practicing engineers can pick the most suitable philosophy for their end application and (ii) researchers can come to know about potential gaps in this area.