Targeted Energy Transfer to a Rotary Nonlinear Energy Sink

Abstract

We study computationally the passive, nonlinear targeted energy transfers induced by resonant interactions between a single-degree-of-freedom nonlinear energy sink and a uniform-plate model of a flexible, swept aircraft wing. We show that the nonlinear energy sink can be designed to quickly and efficiently absorb energy from one or more wing modes in a completely passive manner. Results indicate that it is feasible to use such a device to suppress or prevent aeroelastic instabilities like limit-cycle oscillations. The design of a compact nonlinear energy sink is introduced and the parameters of the device are examined. Simulations performed using a finite-element model of the wing coupled to discrete equations governing the energy sink indicate that targeted energy transfer is achievable, resulting, for example, in a rapid and significant reduction in the second bending mode response of the wing. Finally, the finite element model is used to simulate the effects of increased nonlinear energy sink stiffness, and to show the conditions under which the nonlinear energy sink will resonantly interact with higher-frequency wing modes.