System resonance revisited: Where does the extra energy come from?

In summary, the conversation discusses a resonance effect in a linear 2nd order system that appears to create signal power/energy within the system, but it can be explained through analytical or simulation methods. The input signal and output signal have different amplitudes, but the extra energy output in resonance seems to come from nowhere. This phenomenon is present across a range of Q-factors and appears to be independent of resonance bandwidth. However, discussions of over-unity systems or perpetual motion machines are not allowed as they are considered pseudoscience.
  • #1
jack11
This is concerning a resonance effect in the linear 2nd order system (mechanical, electrical, etc) that seems to create signal power/energy within the system.
I am sure this impossible apparent energy creation has some plausible explanation in laymen’s terms, does anyone care to take a shot at it?

It’s fairly easy to show analytically or by simulation the amplification of a harmonic input signal in a 2nd order linear underdamped system at resonance (forcing input signal freq = system’s natural freq). For example, if damping = 0.1, then the system output amplitude increases by a factor of 5 (harmonic output of the same freq as input). The phase is shifted, but it does not relate to the avg power calculation. I am only interested in this one freq of the forcing harmonic input signal, equal to the system’s natural resonant freq. See any engineering textbook addressing the freq response of the linear 2nd order system.

In simulation, consider the time when the transients involving energy present in initial conditions have died out. The only energy coming into the system is a harmonic forcing input signal with amplitude A and freq equal to the resonant freq of the system, A*cos(wn*t). The only energy leaving the system is a harmonic output signal with the same freq, but with amplitude 5*A, 5*A*cos(wn*t+phi). There is no energy coming into the system other than this input, and the energy stored in the system’s initial conditions has already been dissipated.

The average signal power coming in is A^2/2, and the average signal power coming out is 25*A^2/2. The energy coming out of the system per unit time is 25 times the energy going into the system per unit time. This continues forever in steady state response to this harmonic input, at system’s resonant freq. WHERE IS THIS EXTRA ENERGY OUTPUT BY THE SYSTEM IN RESONANCE COMING FROM ?

Wikipedia explanation of resonance talks about vibrational energy storage and changing forms of energy. But here the power/energy goes in as harmonic forcing function at one amplitude, does not seem to get stored or change the form (or it gets stored and released immediately), and comes out at 25x the original avg power level. This process may continue for infinite time span in steady state.
This effect is present for a range of Q-factors, down to critical damping, so it seems to be independent of Q and resonance bandwidth (different Qs give different amplification levels – but the amplification and apparent power/energy creation is always there).

Any opinions on this, or corrections to the analysis above?

Jack
 
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  • #2
Welcome to the PF.

We do not allow discussions of over-uinity systems or perpetual motion machines (PMMs) here at the PF. They are on the list of banned topics in the Rules link at the top of the page. This thread will remain closed.

Please refer to some of the links to helpful debunking information from the Rules link:

PF Rules said:
Pseudoscience, such as (but not limited to):

Perpetual motion and "free energy" discussions
http://wiki.4hv.org/index.php/Free_Energy_Debunking
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perpetual_motion
http://www.skepdic.com/freeenergy.html
http://www.skepdic.com/perpetual.html
 

1. What is system resonance?

System resonance refers to the tendency of a system to vibrate or oscillate at a specific frequency when exposed to a periodic external force. This frequency is known as the system's natural frequency and is determined by its physical properties such as mass, stiffness, and damping.

2. How is system resonance different from resonance in general?

System resonance is a specific type of resonance that occurs in mechanical or electrical systems, while resonance in general can refer to any phenomenon where an object vibrates or oscillates at a specific frequency in response to an external force.

3. What causes system resonance?

System resonance is caused by the interaction between an external periodic force and the natural frequency of a system. When the frequency of the external force matches the natural frequency of the system, resonance occurs.

4. What are the effects of system resonance?

The effects of system resonance can be both beneficial and detrimental. In some cases, resonance can amplify the amplitude of the system's vibrations, resulting in damage or failure. However, in other cases, resonance can be utilized to increase the efficiency or performance of a system, such as in musical instruments or electrical circuits.

5. How can system resonance be avoided or controlled?

To avoid or control system resonance, the natural frequency of the system can be adjusted by changing its physical properties, such as by adding damping or changing the stiffness. Additionally, the frequency of the external force can also be adjusted to prevent resonance from occurring.

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