An Adaptive Fuzzy Control Algorithm for Model-Independent Active Vibration Damping of Flexible Beam-Like Structures

Abramovich, Haim; Weller, Tanchum; Cohen, Kelly; Levitas, Joseph

The present study deals with an AFCA (Adaptive Fuzzy Control Algorithm) for an Euler-Bemoulli approximation of a two-dimensional version of a cantilever beam-like orthogonal tetrahedral space truss. Transient disturbances, modeled as a unit impulse, excite all the modes of the beam. The resulting transverse displacement at the free end of the beam and its corresponding rate are observed by sensors placed there, and active control of the beam is provided by a collocated force actuator.

A design methodology, based on fuzzy logic which assumes no a priori knowledge of plant dynamics, for the closed-loop control algorithm results in relatively quick settling times, low overshoots and dying out of vibration within a few seconds. The control algorithm is enhanced and made much faster by eliminating the need of repeatedly solving the set of differential equations of motion of an emulated dynamic vibration absorber. When the control force is turned off after a mere 15 seconds, almost all the vibrational energy is dissipated as the beam returns to its undisturbed state throughout its length. In addition, the performance of the AFCA is insensitive to varying initial conditions. To examine the robustness of the control system to changes in the temporal dynamics of the cantilever beam, the transient disturbance response to a considerably perturbed plant is simulated. The Young's modulus of the beam was raised as well as lowered by 60%, substantially perturbing the natural frequencies of vibration compared to the nominal plant. The AFCA provided similar settling times and rates of vibrational energy dissipation, satisfying the aim of plant model independence.

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