Vector control method applied to a traveling wave in a finite beam

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Vibrations and Control Systems

Background:

• Generating controlled wave propagation in mechanical structures is crucial for various engineering applications.
• Existing methods for wave generation often lack dynamic control over vibration modes and robustness to parameter variations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a closed-loop control strategy for producing a traveling wave in a finite beam.
• To enable dynamic and independent control of phase and amplitude for two specific vibration modes.

Main Methods:

• A dynamical model of the beam system was established in a rotating reference frame.
• Closed-loop control was implemented to manipulate two vibration modes, enforcing equal amplitude and a 90° phase shift.
• The control system was validated against experimental measurements on a test bench.

Main Results:

• The developed method successfully generated a traveling wave in the finite beam.
• Experimental results showed a settling time of 250 ms for the traveling wave.
• A standing wave ratio (SWR) of 1.3 was achieved, indicating efficient wave propagation.

Conclusions:

• The proposed closed-loop control based on a rotating frame model effectively generates traveling waves.
• The method offers robust control, compensating for system parameter drift, such as that induced by temperature changes.
• This approach provides a practical and efficient means for controlling wave dynamics in beams.