A non-linear stiffness experimental device for shock isolation

Abstract

Shock vibration is a common problem involving large forces and accelerations, usually resulting in non linear behavior. Normally shock isolation systems are modeled eith linear passive stiffness elements intended to absorb the energy from the shock, and viscous damping in order to dissipate the energy. An experimental isolation system with low dynamic stiffness is proposed and presented in this work, using a combination of positive stiffness and negative stiffness given by magnetic forces. The experimental prototype is based on a theoretical model involving a restoring force with a cubisc relationship of the response. The results presented shown how such an isolator provides improved shock isolation, pointing out some advantages and disadvantages.