The influence of washing machine-leg hardness on its dynamics response within component-mode synthesis techniques

Abstract

In this paper, we investigate a washing machine's dynamic response. Using an experimental modal analysis, the dependence of the first two natural frequencies on the hardness of leg rubber is demonstrated. In order to model this behaviour, a complete washing-machine numerical model is developed, including a detailed model of the leg. A simple linear leg model is proposed, which accounts for the contact conditions and enables an implicit analysis. The model is validated, based on two measurements with different leg configurations. Additionally, the component-mode synthesis methods are proposed. They allow separate treatment of the washing machine's legs and cabinet, as well as reducing the model order. The four model-reduction techniques are compared with the classic finite-element method. It is shown that the component-mode synthesis methods enable fast recalculation times for the modified substructures, while the remaining structure is calculated only once. This leads to a computationally efficient analysis. A comparison of the results shows good agreement between the component-mode synthesis methods and the classic finite-element method.