Optimal Design of a Dynamic Vibration Absorber with Uncertainties

Purpose This contribution aims at analyzing the effect of uncertain parameters on the frequency-domain behavior of a dynamic vibration absorber for the robust optimization that improves its performance based on uncertainty and sensitivity analyses. Although uncertainty and sensitivity analyses have been widely used, the main contribution of this paper consists in applying these concepts in the optimal design of a dynamic absorber considering uncertain operational conditions. Methods Consequently, this study proposes a methodology to increase the efficiency of the dynamic absorber into a frequency band of interest. For this aim, a robust optimization method, solved using a multi-objective optimization algorithm, together with the uncertainty and sensitivities analyses is applied. The uncertain parameters are modeled as random variables based on experimental measurements obtained from a parameter identification procedure. Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses of the dynamic vibration absorber are assessed based on a probabilistic framework using the Monte Carlo simulation. Robust optimization is implemented and solved using a multi-objective genetic algorithm. Conclusions The numerical results demonstrate the influence of the uncertain parameters on the dynamic behavior of the considered mechanical system. Moreover, the optimization procedure allowed determining its optimal design, improving its dynamic performance, and robustness.