A variational formulation for the torsional problem of piezoelastic beams

In this paper a variational formulation is presented for the torsional deformation of homogeneous, linear piezoelectric monoclinic beams. All results of the paper are based on a generalization of the Saint-Venant’s theory of uniform torsion of elastic beams to piezoelastic beams. Variational formulation uses the torsional and electric potential functions as the independent quantities of the considered variational functional. The mechanical meaning of the variational functional defined is also given. Examples illustrate the application of the presented variational formulation. Considered examples are the torsional problem of thin-walled piezoelastic beams with closed cross-section, and the torsion of hollow circular cylinders made of orthotropic piezoelectric material.