Dynamic performance of structures with clutching inertia‐damping system: Theoretical study

Abstract

This paper addresses performance limitations in passive clutching inertia devices due to the absence of flywheel deceleration damping. A solution introducing viscous damping to serve as the flywheel deceleration mechanism is proposed, thus forming the “CIDS” (Clutching Inertia‐Damping System). The study establishes a multi‐body motion analysis model for the CIDS within a single‐degree‐of‐freedom structure. Simulations investigate the impact of control force model parameters on the computation. The impact of additional damping on structural dynamic responses and the system's relative motion is thoroughly elucidated and revealed through dynamic simulations and multi‐body motion decomposition. The “ELS” (Equivalent Linear System) is introduced for the simplified performance assessment of CIDS. Expressions for equivalent damping and inertance are derived based on the equivalence of vibration period and energy in sinusoidal steady‐state vibration. The feasibility and accuracy of ELS for assessing CIDS's performance are validated through response analyses under harmonic and seismic excitations. Notably, displacement indicators exhibit higher precision than acceleration. When subjected to seismic excitation, selecting a more suitable excitation frequency to determine the corresponding equivalent damping can enhance the accuracy of ELS. Considering the frequency dependence of equivalent damping, a frequency‐domain‐based random response evaluation method is proposed. The influence of additional rotational damping, flywheel inertia, and structural natural period on random response is evaluated and analyzed. In CIDS with similar rotational damping and inertia, its control effect is related to the excitation. In summary, this study offers a structured framework for comprehending and evaluating the performance of CIDS, offering valuable insights into its potential engineering design, applications, and analysis.