Vibration Isolation of Structural Systems Using Squeeze Mode ER Mounts

This paper presents vibration control of flexible structures using squeeze mode ER mounts. After devising the squeeze mode ER mount, its field-dependent damping forces are evaluated at various exciting frequencies. The ER mounts are then incorporated with a flexible beam structure. The governing equation of motion is obtained and an optimal controller which represents controllable damping force is designed to attenuate unwanted structural vibration. The controller is experimentally realized and control responses are presented in the frequency domain. In addition, vibration control responses of a flexible frame structure integrating with the proposed ER mounts are investigated by experiment.