Smart structure damping modeling

Damping mechanisms exist in all vibration systems in general, and in smart structures in particular but their nature is little understood and there is no systematic method for modeling general damping. This paper describes a novel damping modeling method (the method of energy approximation, or MEA). This method is novel because it is: a unique damping modeling method without assumed damping linearity; based on experimental data instead of physical principles; hence it is applicable to smart structures of various materials and geometries; suitable for smart structure transient control, which is a critical issue in smart structures. Among the three quantities essential to an understanding of the dynamics of smart structures, mass, stiffness and damping, the last is the most complex and least understood. With technology advances in smart materials and smart structures, the need for a good damping modeling method is more urgent than ever.<>