Modeling and Experimental Validation of the Frequency Response of Synthetic Jets Actuators

A lumped element mathematical model of the operation of a synthetic jet actuator driven by a thin piezoelectric disk is both analytically and numerically investigated in order to obtain information about the frequency response of the device. It is shown that the system behaves as a two-coupled oscillators device and simple relationships are given in order to predict the two peak frequencies, corresponding to the modified Helmholtz and first-mode structural resonance frequencies. The model is validated through systematic experimental tests carried out on three devices having different mechanical and geometrical characteristics. A very strict agreement between analytical and numerical findings is found, thus one can use the computer code as a practical tool for overall design purposes.