A STUDY ON OPTIMAL DESIGN OF MR DAMPERS USING ANSYS WORKBENCH

The optimization analysis will be extended to prototype MR dampers and evaluate their performances. This study uses the finite element approach to numerically analyze and optimize dampers that use magnetorheological fluid (MRF, also called MR dampers). In those other words, this study outlines how to analyze and optimize MR dampers utilizing the finite element method and design optimization feature offered by the ANSYS workbench software. After reviewing the previous studies on MR dampers, a damper in the form of a monotube damper will be used for the analysis of magnetic circuits and behaviors in ANSYS Parameter Design Language (APDL). Additionally, based on the Bingham plastic rheological model of MR fluid, mathematical models of the MR damper will be established such as the damping force and dynamic range. The ANSYS Workbench Design Optimization Tool subsequently conducts design optimization by interfacing with APDL which was undertaken to analyze the behavior of the MR damper. The objective function (OBJ) was established for the MR damper to minimize the objective function derived for the MR damper at various configurations. From the optimal performances of different methods, a comparison work on damping force and dynamic range of different optimization methods in ANSYS Workbench Optimization Tool as well as between initial designs and optimal designs in order to find the best optimal method for the MR damper.