Time Period & Oscillations: Engineer's Best Option

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SUMMARY

The optimal configuration for minimizing oscillations in engineering structures involves achieving a large time period (T) of oscillation. This can be accomplished by reducing stiffness (k) and increasing mass (m), as indicated by the formula T = 2π√(m/k). A larger time period results in fewer oscillations, making it a desirable characteristic for building stability. Therefore, engineers should prioritize designs that incorporate less stiffness and greater mass to enhance structural performance against oscillations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion
  • Familiarity with the concepts of stiffness and mass
  • Knowledge of oscillation period calculations
  • Basic principles of structural engineering
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of simple harmonic oscillators in detail
  • Explore the relationship between stiffness and mass in structural design
  • Learn about damping techniques to further reduce oscillations
  • Investigate advanced materials that can enhance mass without compromising structural integrity
USEFUL FOR

Structural engineers, civil engineers, and architects focused on building design and stability, particularly those interested in minimizing oscillations in structures.

jrm2002
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My question is that going by the definition of time period that is,
"the time required to complete one oscillation".

Now, if I say the best option for an engineer should be that , the building should not oscillate , am I right?

That could happen if the time period of a system is very large, right?
Because, if the time period is LESS, the frequency is MORE, hence the system would suffer more oscillations , right?So to make the building suffer no oscillations/ less oscillations the time period should be LARGE.

SO AM I RIGHT IF I SAY LESS STIFFNESS AND MORE MASS WOULD BE THE IDEAL CONFIGURATION?
 
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You can verify this yourself by simply looking at the expression for a period of oscillation for a simple harmonic oscillator. The period is given by

T = \sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}

[a factor of 2pi hanging around somewhere]

where T is the period, k is the spring constant (a measure of stiffness of the spring), and m is the oscillating mass. You can already see that to maximize T, you want to make k as small as possible, and m as large as possible.

Zz.
 

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