Design of damping layout using spatial-damping identification methods

The design of a damping layout can result in a frequency-focused reduction of vibration responses. Theoretical approaches that relate the spatial-damping parameters with the frequency content of the damping are limited. This research introduces a theoretical approach to damping-layout design (location and size) with frequency-content control. Initially, the frequency-response functions (measured or simulated) are modified to obtain the required damping layout via spatial-damping identification methods. The use of these methods provides a straightforward relationship between the frequency responses and the targeted spatial damping. The Lee-Kim spatial-damping identification method is used in the presented numerical and experimental case studies. The numerical and experimental results show that the approach is capable of providing the desired frequency content. This approach can be a valuable tool for a damping-layout assessment as high damping can be achieved with a reduced amount of damping material in a single-step solution.