Recent Developments of the Network Synthesis Theory for Passive Vibration Control Seminar

Linear passive vibration absorbers, such as tuned mass dampers, often contain springs, dampers and masses. Although recently there has been a growing trend to employ or supplement the mass elements with inerters, which is a relatively new component that offers a step change in the performance of passive vibration suppression systems by fundamentally enhancing the systems’ achievable dynamic properties. When considering possible vibration suppression configurations with springs, dampers and inerters, two approaches are normally used, one structure-based and one immittance-based. The structure-based approach has the limitation that, despite having countless possible network layouts, only one layout can be covered by each analysis. The immittance-based approach is far more systematic. However, relevant network synthesis techniques need to be developed to enable the network configurations that can provide optimum performance to be identified. In this talk, the basic concept of inerter and its successful application in the racing industry will be reviewed. Consequently, recent developments of the network synthesis theory, and how these results are used in the identification of beneficial configurations for vibration absorbers will be explained in detail. Example mechanical structures include multi-storey buildings, road & railway vehicles, landing gears and cables.