An electroelastic Kirchhoff rod theory incorporating free space electric energy
This work presents a geometrically exact Kirchhoff-like electroelastic rod theory wherein the contribution of free space energy is also factored in. In addition to the usual mechanical variables such as the rod's centerline and cross-section orientation, three electric potential parameters are also introduced to account for the variation in electric potential within the rod's cross-section as well as along the rod length. The free space energy is included through an electric flux-like variable acting on the lateral surface of the rod.