Tuning of a vibration absorber with shunted piezoelectric transducers

In order to reduce structural vibrations in narrow frequency bands, tuned mass absorbers can be an appropriate measure. A quite similar approach which makes use of applied piezoelectric elements, instead of additional oscillating masses, are the well-known resonant shunts, consisting of resistances, inductances, and possibly negative capacitances connected to the piezoelectric element. This paper presents a combined approach, which is based on a conventional tuned mass absorber, but whose characteristics can be strongly influenced by applying shunted piezoceramics. Simulations and experimental analyses are shown to be very effective in predicting the behavior of such electromechanical systems. The vibration level of the absorber can be strongly attenuated by applying different combinations of resistant, resonant, and negative capacitance shunt circuits. The damping characteristics of the absorber can be changed by applying a purely resistive or resonant resistant shunt. Additionally, the tuning frequency of the absorber can be adapted to the excitation frequency, using a negative capacitance shunt circuit, which requires only the energy to supply the electric components.