Sensitivity of jump avoidance condition of piecewise linear vibration isolator to dynamical parameters

An adapted averaging method is employed to obtain an implicit function for frequency response of a bilinear vibration isolator system under steady state. This function is examined for jump-avoidance and a condition is derived which when met ensures that the undesirable phenomenon of 'Jump' does not occur and the system response is functional and unique. The jump avoidance and sensitivity of the condition are examined and investigated as the dynamic parameters vary. The results of this investigation can be directly employed in design of effective piecewise linear vibration isolators. A linear vibration system is defined as one in which the quantities of mass (or inertia), stiffness, and damping are linear in behavior and do not vary with time [1]. Although mathematical models employing a linear ordinary differential equation with constant coefficients portray a simple and manageable system for analytical scrutiny, in most cases they are an incomplete representation simplified for the sake of study. Most real physical vibration systems are more accurately depicted by nonlinear governing equations, in which the non-linearity may stem from structural constraints causing a change in stiffness and damping characteristics, or from inherent non-linear behavior of internal springs and dampers. This paper focuses on a general form of such a non-linear system. This study of piecewise-linear systems will allow hazardous system behavior over operating frequency ranges to be gauged and controlled in order to avoid premature fatigue damage, and prolong the life of the system.