How is a 3D Mass-Spring-Damper System Expressed in Mathematical Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the mathematical expression of a 3D mass-spring-damper system, exploring its extension from a 2D model to three dimensions. Participants delve into the implications of spherical coordinates, the application of the model in specific contexts like MEMS accelerometers, and the potential for finite element modeling.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the 2D mass-spring-damper equation and inquires about its extension to three dimensions.
  • Another participant suggests using spherical coordinates to express the components of the radial vector.
  • A participant proposes a specific 3D equation for a mass hanging from a spring, incorporating forces and velocities in three dimensions.
  • There is a suggestion to analyze the motion of a mass inside a 3D MEMS accelerometer, detailing the system's mechanics and voltage generation.
  • A request for clarification on the meaning of 'F' in the context of the equations is raised.
  • One participant seeks resources for developing a finite element model of a 2D spring mass lattice that could be extended to infinite length, asking for equations of motion under various conditions.
  • A question is posed about extending the radial vector expression to an n-dimensional case.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various approaches to modeling the system, with no consensus on a single method or solution. Multiple competing views and inquiries remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Some discussions involve assumptions about small deflections and the specific configurations of springs in the proposed models, which may affect the equations of motion. The inquiry into n-dimensional cases introduces additional complexity that is not fully addressed.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying mechanical systems, particularly in the context of modeling and simulation in physics and engineering, as well as those involved in MEMS technology and finite element analysis.

dduardo
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I know a 2d mass-spring-damper is expressed:

F = m g j − k D (sin θ i + cos θ j) − b (Vx i + Vy j)

m = mass
g = gavity
k = spring constant
D = string length displacement
Vx = Velocity X
Vy = Velocity Y

But how would you extend this to three dimensions?
 
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You'll just need to express the components of the radial vector using polar and azimuth angles: (\sin \theta \cos \phi, \sin \theta \sin phi, \cos \phi) where z is "up."

(\theta is the polar angle and \phi is the azimuthal angle in standard spherical coordinates.)
 
Ah, spherical coordinate system. I should have realized that. So it should be the following for a case where the spring is anchored from above and the mass is dangling:

m (ax i + ay j + az k) = m g j − k D (sin(θ)cos(phi) i + sin(theta)sin(phi) j + cos(phi) k) − b (Vx i + Vy j + Vz k)

Now let's say a spring-damper is added to each face of a cube. I guess you could consider this new system a spring lattice but the ends of the springs are anchored instead of going to other masses. Could you apply a perpendicular rotation to the equation above for each face and sum up the forces due to each spring?

Just a note: I would eventually want to linearize the system by assuming very small deflections.
 
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Sure, you could do that. It sounds like you're trying to analyze the motion of an atom in a lattice?
 
No I'm trying to model the motion of the mass inside of a 3d MEMS (Micro electro-mechanical system) accelerometer. The system is basically composed of a cube in the center that is held in place by piezoelectric bridges. When the bridges are compressed they generate a voltage. Based on position of the mass I can figure out what type of votage I'm generating which thus tells me the acceleration.
 
Last edited:
Mr dduardo you did not mentioned what does 'F' mean here ?
 
I am looking for a finite element model (actually a 2D spring mass lattice model which has springs not only at its sides but also 4 sides spring crossings at the center like 'x' or 2 sides spring crossings at the center like '/'), can be extended upto infinite length. I need the equations of motion for frequency and (phase)velocity with pre-stress and stressed conditions.
If anybody does know any helping material, paper, book, website or software for this. Then let me know, it would be a nice help for me.Thanks !
 
Tide said:
You'll just need to express the components of the radial vector using polar and azimuth angles: (\sin \theta \cos \phi, \sin \theta \sin phi, \cos \phi) where z is "up."

(\theta is the polar angle and \phi is the azimuthal angle in standard spherical coordinates.)

how would you do the same for an n-dimensional case?
 

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