Numerical Optimization and Experimental Validation of Finite Perforated Cellular Panels for Vibration Reduction

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Acoustics

Background:

• Mechanical vibrations pose challenges in lightweight structures, impacting aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications.
• Existing vibration reduction methods using phononic crystals and perforated plates have limitations in precise tuning due to uniform hole designs.
• Precisely controlling vibration transmission requires novel approaches beyond traditional periodic perforation patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel design and optimization framework for finite perforated cellular panels.
• To individually optimize each perforation diameter for targeted vibration suppression within specific frequency ranges.
• To demonstrate a practical and scalable approach for vibration control in finite structural components.

Main Methods:

• Coupling finite element models with Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to minimize the frequency response function (FRF) amplitude.
• Optimizing aluminum panels with 16 and 25 perforations.
• Experimental validation using CNC machining and impact hammer tests.

Main Results:

• Achieved up to 90% reduction in vibrational amplitude within target frequency bands.
• Demonstrated strong agreement between numerical predictions and experimental results.
• Validated the effectiveness of non-periodic, locally optimized perforation patterns.

Conclusions:

• Individually optimized perforation diameters offer precise control over vibration suppression.
• Non-periodic perforation patterns provide a practical and scalable solution for vibration control in finite structures.
• This approach enhances the performance and durability of lightweight structures by mitigating mechanical vibrations.