A Comparison of Linear and Circular Force Inertial Actuation

Abstract:
This paper compares inertial linear and circular force technologies for applications of structural vibration control and tactile feedback/vibration enhancement for passenger vehicles. Comparisons of weight, size, frequency range and force capability are examined, focusing on frequencies below 100 Hz. We demonstrate an inherent mechanical advantage of a circular force generator (CFG) in comparison to a linear device when deployed for generating large forces with significantly lower weight for tonal vibration control or harmonic excitation. Although larger and heavier at low frequencies, the linear technology can generate broad-band frequency content that can be better suited for multi-frequency and broadband vibration control and/or vibration enhancement.