Experimental and optimization analysis of a multiple unidirectional single-particle damper

Abstract

The particle damper is an efficient passive control device, which has been the focus of extensive research. It has certain applications in the fields of machinery, aviation, and aerospace, and is currently being investigated in the field of civil engineering. The current theoretical model of the particle damper is based on observations of the vibration phenomena of particles and a controlled structure, which cannot directly reveal its damping mechanism. In this paper, a multiple unidirectional single-particle damper (MUSPD) is discussed. Its mechanical model is established, and the corresponding numerical simulation method is proposed. Both the rationality and feasibility of the numerical simulation method are verified using a shaking table test. Secondly, based on the analysis of the damping mechanism of the MUSPD, the collision force between a particle and the controlled structure is equivalent to an impulse force; hence, an equivalent mechanical model for the MUSPD is established which is solved analytically in the frequency-time domain. Next, based on the equivalent mechanical model, a performance optimization method for the MUSPD under dynamic load is proposed. Finally, the accuracy of the equivalent mechanical model and the performance optimization method, along with the effectiveness of the latter, are verified by numerical simulation of the MUSPD. The results indicate that the MUSPD has a fine damping effect, and its numerical simulation method is reasonable and effective. The equivalent mechanical model of the MUSPD can directly represent its damping mechanism and has high accuracy, and the performance optimization method is both reasonable and feasible.