Performance evaluation of a semi-active magnetorheological mount

The paper presents the design and control aspects of a magnetorheological (MR) fluid based mount. The proposed design yields a high static stiffness and a low dynamic stiffness in the working frequency range of the mount, enhancing the vibration isolation capabilities of the mount compared to existing hydraulic mounts. Vertical vibrations, namely displacement/force transmissibility, can be isolated or significantly reduced, in real time, by controlling the fluid yield stress through an applied electric current. The mount governing equations are derived and the effectiveness of the mount is evaluated for two cases: low frequency-high displacement and at high frequency-low displacement. These cases correspond to the operation of the mount in squeeze mode and in flow mode, respectively. Preliminary results on the implementation of a skyhook control strategy are also presented.