Computer-aided synthesis and analysis of discrete mechanical systems

Purpose: The main objective of this study is to present and describe major properties of software that has been developed by the author himself with the purpose to support the synthesis and analysis of vibrating systems. The synthesis is the reverse task as compared to the analysis as it is intended to achieve a system that meets already assumed requirements related to the value of vibration frequency. Design/methodology/approach: The conventional approach to design complex systems is frequently time consuming and provides a guarantee that it leads to satisfying results they can never be taken for granted. Therefore, application of the other, non-conventional methods proved to be necessary, such as combined structural and parametric synthesis. As a final result of that, a method of the desired structure is obtained along with such parameters of individual system components which meet the presumed requirements. Findings: The presented software has one substantial advantage, which is the fact that no mathematical models that are used to describe the system must be defined anew when any of the system parameters or the system structure are altered. The software enables also to compare passive and active suppression of vibrations. The analyses that have been carried out with the use of the software provide a proof that application of active vibration-suppressing components leads to better results than when only passive components are used. Research limitations/implications: Scope of deliberations is limited to discrete mechanical systems that exercise longitudinal vibrations and incorporate either passive or active vibration-suppressing components, but for this type of systems, this approach is sufficient. Practical implications: The methods of reverse task and analysis can be a base of design and construction for this type of mechanic systems. Originality/value: The possibilities and operation of the author’s program supporting the synthesis and analysis of discrete mechanical systems are also discussed. By means of this software it is possible to carry out the analysis and synthesis of discrete systems containing both active and passive elements that reduce vibrations.