Modelling and control of horizontal flexible plate using particle swarm optimization

This paper presents the modeling and active vibration control using an evolutionary swarm algorithm known as particle swarm optimization. Initially, a flexible plate experimental rig was designed and fabricated with all clamped edges as boundary conditions constrained at horizontal position. The purpose of the experimental rig development is to collect the input-output vibration data. Next, the data acquisition and instrumentation system were designed and integrated with the experimental rig. Several procedures were conducted to acquire the input-output vibration data. The collected vibration data were then utilized to develop the system model. The parametric modeling using particle swarm optimization was devised using an auto regressive model with exogenous model structure. The developed model was validated using mean square error, one step ahead prediction, correlation tests and pole-zero diagram stability. Then, the developed model was used for the development of controller using an active vibration control technique. It was found that particle swarm optimization based on the active vibration control using Ziegler-Nichols method has successfully suppressed the unwanted vibration of the horizontal flexible plate system. The developed controller achieved the highest attenuation value at the first mode of vibration which is the dominant mode in the system with 34.37 dB attenuation.