Strain coupling optimization in magnetoelectric transducers

The mechanical behavior of magnetoelectric transducers consisting of piezoelectric-magnetostrictive bilayers has been modeled. The effect of the aspect ratio of the transducer as well as the influence of non-active surrounding layers has been modeled, including a passivation layer surrounding the active device, a clamping layer above the active device, and an interfacial layer that might be inserted between the magnetostrictive and the piezoelectric layers. Strategies to control and maximize the strain magnitude and orientation based on material selection and device design are proposed.