Implementation of an active bracing system to reduce vibrations in a physical model using Pole Placement Strategy

Abstract

This paper describes the work involving a laboratorial implementation of an active bracing system to control vibrations in a plane frame physical model with 4 degrees-of-freedom. This active bracing system is actuated by a voice coil motor commanded by an algorithm implemented in a Real-Time controller. The control strategy used to reduce vibrations is based on the pole placement design of linear systems. The aim of this methodology is to modify the dynamics of the original structure by moving its closed-loop poles to more convenient positions, in order to get a reduction in the system response when it is excited by several kinds of loads, with particularly interest in the case of periodic forces. The efficiency of the proposed control system was verified experimentally by analyzing the control effect obtained in the modification of the dynamic parameters of the system in terms of natural frequencies and damping ratios, and observing the consequent reduction achieved in its structural response.