A Squeeze-Flow Mode Magnetorheological Mount: Design, Modeling, and Experimental Evaluation

Abstract

This paper presents a dual-mode magnetorheological (MR) fluid mount. Combining the fluid’s flow and squeeze modes of operation gives this MR mount a unique possibility for varying dynamic stiffness and damping. Details on the design of the internal structure of the mount and the magnetic circuit are provided. Simulation and experimental results are presented to show the effectiveness of the magnetic circuit. A mathematical model that combines the behavior of the fluid and the elastomeric parts and takes into account the magnetic activation of the fluid is used to gauge the effect of design parameters on the isolation characteristics of the mount. Experimental results show that in the proposed design, the dynamic stiffness of the mount may be varied over a wide range of frequencies making the mount a unique and versatile vibration isolation device for cases where input excitation occurs over a wide range of frequencies.