Design Principles for Vibration Isolation and Damping with Elastomers Including Nonlinearity

Abstract

Abstract In this paper, some of the more novel features of the dynamic and static properties of elastomers have been examined in relation to their use in vibration isolation and damping. Exploitation of some of these features in advanced designs could lead to improvements in areas such as the protection of sensitive equipment and could lead to new concepts in systems such as ground-vehicle suspensions for large wheeled or nonwheeled vehicles designed for rough terrain. Elastomers are already used in many critical areas of space technology, however, the problems of temperature extremes and volatility make the space environment a challenging one. New developments in materials technology may yet be required to meet these demands, however, many of the principles discussed will still be applicable. The development of space technology may provide the impetus for new designs in which the potential of elastomeric components may be exploited to the full, with valuable spin-offs to nonspace applications, where cost considerations may currently inhibit the development of advanced devices.