Nonlinear models and validation for resetable device design and enhanced force capacity

Resetable devices are a novel semi-active approach to managing structural response energy. Recently developed devices allow independent control of each chamber enabling unique approaches to sculpting the structural hysteresis loops and behaviour. This paper creates a nonlinear model of experimental prototypes, which is fully generalizable, and does so in a step-by-step manner adding each nonlinear affect individually. Nonlinearities that can significantly affect the performance, including valve size, mass flow rate and friction, are characterized experimentally and modelled. The results are validated against experimental data for cases of all forms of device control as well as for cases utilizing external pressurized sources to enhance the force capacity. Final model results are within 5% of nonlinear experimental data showing a strong correlation between the fundamental nonlinear dynamics of the model and the experimental devices. The overall results and approach are fully general for application to the design or analysis of these semi-active device systems using either hydraulic fluids or, as in this case, air for the working medium. Copyright 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Nonlinear models and validation for resetable device design and enhanced force capacity Academic Article