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Open-source Electronic Mass-Spring-Damper emulator with nonlinear dynamics for education and control research
Ernesto V Gonzalez-Solis1, David I Rosas-Almeida1
1Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Mexicali, Mexico.
Hardwarex
|May 22, 2026
Summary
An open-source Electronic Mass-Spring-Damper (EMSD) emulator replicates mechanical system dynamics in real-time. This hardware solution offers an accessible platform for education and research in system dynamics and control.
Area of Science:
- Control Systems Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Analog Electronics
Background:
- Second-order mechanical systems are fundamental in engineering.
- Simulating nonlinear dynamics often involves complex numerical methods.
- Bridging the gap between simulation and physical prototypes is crucial for research and education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an open-source Electronic Mass-Spring-Damper (EMSD) emulator.
- To reproduce continuous-time, real-time dynamic behavior of mechanical systems.
- To emulate both linear and nonlinear system characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized analog processing blocks to solve nonlinear differential equations directly.
- Avoided numerical discretization and digital computation for real-time performance.
- Implemented user-accessible front panel controls for parameter adjustment (mass, damping, stiffness, nonlinearities).
Main Results:
- Successfully emulated linear dynamics and nonlinear effects like dry friction and dead-zone nonlinearities.
- Achieved real-time, continuous-time operation without digital computation.
- Provided analog input/output for seamless integration with external systems (controllers, HIL).
Conclusions:
- The EMSD emulator provides a compact, low-cost, and transparent solution.
- Facilitates hands-on education and experimental research in system dynamics and control.
- Effectively bridges the gap between numerical simulations and physical prototypes.
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