Localized trio cantilevers for identifying different mass perturbations

Abstract

This paper demonstrates a method based on mode localization which, for the first time, verifies the possibility of identifying two kinds of mass perturbations with a coupled three-cantilever array theoretically, analytically and experimentally. In the light of mode shapes in certain resonance modes, the proportion of mass perturbations on the side and center cantilever can be qualitatively determined. A combination of the 1st and 3rd mode shape was selected for discriminating different situations including one single mass perturbation and mixed mass perturbations. On the one hand, the proposed method simplifies the structure of the present 15 or 5 cantilever array sensors used for mass positioning. On the other hand, it provides a simple and efficient way to the pre-warning of those multiple toxic substances in some public places.