A method for determining locations of electro-rheological dampers in structures

This paper develops an effective procedure for determining the locations of the electro-rheological (ER) dampers in complex structures. Using virtual dampers placed at the locations of interest in systems, the power dissipation of the virtual dampers can be computed. On the basis of the values of the power dissipation for virtual ER dampers placed at different positions, the search procedure for finding the best locations for ER dampers is discussed. In order to illustrate the control effect of ER dampers on vibrations of structures, non-linear response analysis is also discussed, with local mode superposition. A numerical example-an automotive chassis with ER dampers-is treated, to illustrate the application of the present theory.