Independent modal control for nonlinear flexible structures: An experimental test rig

This paper investigates the use of independent modal control to suppress the vibration of nonlinear flexible structures. In recent years technological improvements in the mechanical field have led to high-performance systems with low weight and, as a consequence, high flexibility and low damping. Here active control quickly bettered the traditional passive damping systems. The structure investigated in this paper is a multi-body flexible boom moved by hydraulic actuators. The nonlinear system dynamic was numerically reproduced and a control strategy, based on the use of the same actuators, was developed. Finally a test rig was created to validate the proposed approach experimentally.