Nonlinear interactions of an n-layer X-shape low-frequency vibration isolator equipped with a nonlinear vibration absorber at 1:1 internal resonance: analytical and numerical investigations

Abstract This work addresses, for the first time, the nonlinear dynamics of an n − layers bioinspired X − shape low-frequency vibration isolation system equipped with a nonlinear vibration absorber. The comprehensive mathematical model governing the two-degree-of-freedom system has been derived using Lagrangian mechanics. The method of averaging was applied to obtain an accurate analytical solution for the derived mathematical model. Utilizing the established analytical solution, the dynamical characteristics of the X − shape vibration isolator have been explored both as a single-degree-of-freedom system and after coupling with the proposed vibration absorber, as a two-degree-of-freedom system. The influence of different system parameters, including the number of structure layers, the initial inclination angle, the X − shape rod length, and the absorber stiffness and damping coefficients, on the vibration isolation performance has been investigated. The main findings indicate that while the single-degree-of-freedom X − shape low-frequency vibration isolator performs well in eliminating low-frequency vibration excitations, it exhibits strong vibration levels when the base excitation frequency exceeds the structure's natural frequency. Additionally, it was found that coupling a highly damped linear vibration absorber to the X − shape isolator not only eliminates the strong oscillations of the structure when subjected to high-frequency base excitations but also enhances the structure's low-frequency vibration isolation performance. Moreover, it was reported that integrating a nonlinear vibration absorber with either soft or hard spring characteristics instead of a linear one may degrade the vibration isolation performance of the structure rather than enhance it. Finally, numerical validation of all the analytical results was performed, which showed excellent correspondence with the analytical findings.