Time Domain Optimization of a Vibration Absorber

Abstract

This paper considers two design problems involving the transient vibrations of a dynamic vibration absorber. The design objective of the first problem is to minimize the maximum force transmitted between masses in an absorber system. In the second problem the time required for energy dissipation is minimized. The design objectives and the associated constraints are formulated as mathematical programming problems. The solutions are obtained numerically using a method of constrained steepest descent with state equations. The design procedure presented is general and can be applied to optimization problems involving more complex systems.