Investigation into a Nonlinear Vibration Neutralizer that Incorporates Magnets

Vibration neutralizers are devices designed to reduce vibration levels within a host structure caused by external sources. Unlike tuned vibration absorbers, which target a resonance frequency of the host structure, vibration neutralizers are specifically tailored to suppress vibration at a harmonic frequency of the external excitation source. The design and application of these devices are critical, especially given the challenges posed by low-frequency vibration control, where either a large mass or a small stiffness is required. However, large masses are undesirable in practical applications, due to increased energy consumption, while low stiffness can lead to significant displacements, resulting in additional engineering challenges. In this study, a vibration neutralizer incorporating permanent magnets was constructed and tested. Different configurations of magnetic poles were explored to minimize the addition of mass to the system using a preload created by magnetic forces. The impact of static preload was investigated, showing that it provides a softening effect. A further investigation was carried out into alternative permanent magnet configurations to enhance the performance of the neutralizer by introducing hardening or softening effects, expanding the range of low frequency vibration control. The characterization of the nonlinear neutralizer shows that it could be a promising vibration control device.