Dr. Paul Gilmore introduces a novel approach to creating Quasi-Zero Stiffness (QZS) isolators using affordable and compact coned disk springs. These springs, which can be designed for various force requirements, achieve the QZS effect with a single component. This innovation eliminates the need to balance separate positive and negative stiffness elements, which is typically required in previous QZS isolators.
A challenge with coned disk springs is their limited displacement range, which Gilmore addresses by stacking multiple disk springs with rigid spacers. However, the nonlinear force–deflection behavior is influenced by manufacturing-driven geometric variability, a factor overlooked in previous research. Gilmore’s study investigates how these variations impact the static behavior of QZS stacks using both experimental and computational methods.
The research explores the stability regimes of QZS stacks and identifies buckling and snap-through events caused by the geometric variability. By experimentally validating an analytical model for the multi-disk engineered stack, Gilmore’s work provides a deeper understanding of the geometric variability’s effects. This insight is crucial for designing practical QZS isolators, which unavoidably have manufacturing tolerances. The findings lead to new guidelines for designing disk spring stack-based QZS isolators. It is anticipated that these stacks can improve the comfort of automotive seats and reduce vibrations of other vehicle components.
For detailed information, please refer to the published paper in Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing.
