Structural damping and vibration control via smart sensors and actuators

In this paper we emphasize several advances recently made in the area of structural damping aimed towards reducing, and preferably eliminating, mechanical vibrations. First, a few commonly encountered undesirable effects of vibrations on structures are discussed. This is followed by an identification of research needs, and a discussion of typical research projects sponsored by the Structures and Dynamics Program of the United States Army Research Office towards meeting these needs. We include research projects in areas such as modeling of damping mechanisms, analysis and design of vibration absorbers, surface damping treatment of beams and similar other structures, and the use of magnetorheological and electrorheological fluids for vibration attenuation. Finally, we make recommendations for directions that are beneficial for future research in this area.

Duke Scholars

Author Devendra P. Garg Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materia ...