Transfer function of a damped hanging mass

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SUMMARY

The transfer function for a damped hanging mass system can be derived using the Laplace transform of the equations of motion. The input force \(u\) and the outputs \(X_1(s)\) and \(X_2(s)\) are defined by the equations \(u - b(\dot{x}_1 + \dot{x}_2) = m(\ddot{x_1} + \ddot{x_2})\) and the respective Laplace transforms. The correct formulation leads to the transfer function \(H(s) = \frac{X_1(s)}{U(s)}\), but care must be taken to eliminate \(X_2(s)\) from the equations to isolate the desired output. The initial conditions are assumed to be zero for this analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Laplace transforms and their application in control systems.
  • Familiarity with Newton's laws of motion and damping forces.
  • Knowledge of transfer functions and their significance in system analysis.
  • Basic proficiency in solving differential equations related to mechanical systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of transfer functions for multi-mass systems in mechanical engineering.
  • Learn about the application of Laplace transforms in solving differential equations.
  • Investigate methods for eliminating variables in transfer function analysis.
  • Explore the impact of damping on system stability and response characteristics.
USEFUL FOR

Mechanical engineers, control system analysts, and students studying dynamics and vibrations will benefit from this discussion, particularly those focusing on the analysis of damped systems and transfer functions.

Dustinsfl
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How do I find the transfer function of damped masses hanging?

I know that the transfer function is
\[
H(s) = \frac{\mathcal{L}\{y(t)\}}{\mathcal{L}\{x(t)\}}
\]
where \(u\) is the input which is a force and \(x_1\) is the output.

Given the following diagram (see below), how do I find the input and output functions?

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/800x600q90/40/eh7q.png
 
Last edited:
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The force of damping is
\[
F_d = b\frac{dx}{dt}
\]
so by Newton's Law, the system can be written as
\[
u - b(\dot{x}_1 + \dot{x}_2) = m(\ddot{x_1} + \ddot{x}_2).
\]
Is this Correct?

How do I separate out the input from the output?
 
I tried modeling the forces separately but not sure if this is wise either.

For the first mass, we have $-b\dot{x}_1 = m\ddot{x_1}$, correct?

Now the second is $-b(\dot{x}_1 + \dot{x}_2) + u = m\ddot{x}_2$, correct?

I should be able to take the Laplace transform of both and end up with what I need to construct the transfer function which is
$$
H(s) = \frac{X_1(s)}{U(s)}.
$$
However, I still have and $X_2(s)$. Are my equations of motion wrong? If not, what am I doing incorrectly?

If take the Laplace transform of both, we have
\[
X_1(s)(s^2m + bs) = 0
\]
and
\[
X_2(s)(s^2m + sb) + sbX_1(s) - U(s) = 0
\]
The initial conditions are zero since when finding the transfer function, the initial conditions are zero by definition. If this is correct, how do I get rid of \(X_2(s)\)?
 
Last edited:

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