Multiharmonic Forced Response Analysis of a Torsional Vibration Isolator Using a Nonlinear Quasi-zero Stiffness Approach

The forced response of a nonlinear coupling element featuring an angular displacement range with quasi-zero stiffness (QZS) is studied numerically by means of multiharmonic simulations. This chapter focuses on the development of an iterative simulation procedure for the prediction of torsional vibration isolation. It is based on the multiharmonic balance method and an alternating frequency–time-domain approach in combination with a numerical continuation of the solution branch using a predictor–corrector scheme. The simulation procedure is validated against time-domain solutions for a single-degree-of-freedom oscillator. A parametric study regarding the excitation torque amplitude, the amount of damping, the degree of isolation as well as the static offset from the nominal operating point is conducted. Finally, the procedure is applied to the torsional vibration analysis of a generic internal combustion engine. The results indicate a potential reduction of torsional drive train vibrations by up to 93% using the QZS isolation principle.