Characterization, Modeling and Vibration Control of a Flexible Rubber Beam With Embedded Piezoelectric Actuators and Sensors
A cantilever rubber beam with laminated piezoelectric actuators and sensors is initially tested to determine the properties governing the dynamic behavior of the beam. Various techniques are employed to estimate beam properties such as elastic stiffness, damping coefficient and natural frequencies, as well as piezoelectric actuator capabilities for vibration control purposes. A simplified Euler-Bernoulli model is proposed, which is validated using the properties previously discovered. A passive electric shunt circuit is then proposed for the beam vibration suppression, when subjected to external excitation forces. Simulation of a series resistor-inductor shunt circuit is used to demonstrate the capability of altering the beam’s dynamic behavior. Various methods for tuning the shunt circuit are explored in an effort to achieve optimal vibration suppression characteristics. Furthermore, experimental testing is conducted for validation of simulation results, which also yields similar information about passive shunting techniques for vibration damping.