Piezoelectric Vibration Control of Translational Flexible Beams Using Switched Stiffness

Abstract

A switch-shunt stiffness method for vibration attenuation of flexible beams undergoing translational base motion with a laminated piezoelectric patch attachment is presented. The piezoelectric actuator, bonded on the top surface of the flexible beam, is switched between open and short circuit configurations. This results in a variable equivalent stiffness which, in turn, can remove energy from the overall system by directly affecting the stored potential energy in the flexible beam. Initially, a single degree of freedom system is considered for validation of the switched stiffness method. The method is then applied to a flexible beam with moving base, representing a Cartesian-type one-link robot manipulator. Simulation results demonstrate favorable vibration attenuation in both cases; the single degree of freedom oscillator and the cantilever flexible beam. Several variations of the switching mechanisms are explored in an effort to achieve optimal vibration characteristics. Experimental testing is currently under investigation for validation of the simulation results presented here.