arXiv subjects

Lawrence A. Bergman

Publications and source records attributed to Lawrence A. Bergman.

13 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Robust Resonance due to Non-standard Frequency Modulation

It is shown that harmonic signals incorporating a new type of weak non-standard frequency modulation (wNSFM) have unexpected spectral properties, namely, ever expanding broadband frequency spectra with progressing time. As such, they represent a new class of signals with spectra with strong frequency-time coupling. Applying this wNSFM signal to excite the classical single-degree-of-freedom linear, time-invariant damped/undamped oscillator yields new unique types of highly robust resonance phenomena. Specifically, the weakly damped oscillator exhibits always two transient resonance captures involving two distinct harmonics possessing relatively high amplitudes over finite time intervals, while the overall response decays as $~t^{-1/2}$ as $t\rightarrow\infty$. Considering the undamped oscillator, it possesses two types of resonances, referred to as simple and non-simple resonances. Simple resonances correspond to finite-amplitude steady-state responses caused by two sustained resonance captures, in the form of two distinct modulated quasi-periodic responses, which, however are "activated" at different time instances. The necessary and sufficient and usfficent conditions for non-simple resonances are given in the form of a theorem which predicts the existence of resonant harmonics and specifies the special phase conditions that the resonant harmonics must satisfy for constructive interference; the resulting undamped non-simple resonance grows unboundedly as $~t^{-1/2}$ as $t\rightarrow\infty$, in contrast to the classical resonance growth of the linear resonator with unmodulated harmonic excitation whose response grows as $~t$ as $t\rightarrow\infty$. These resonant responses are robust to changes in the parameters of the wNSFM. Our results reveal a new class of interesting resonance phenomena in linear resonators subject to non-standard weakly frequency-modulated excitations.

math.DS↗

arXiv2026

Time-bandwidth Study of Non-classically Damped, Linear, Time-invariant Coupled Oscillators with Closely Spaced Modes

In dynamics and vibrations, the concept of bandwidth for linear time-invariant systems is widely recognized as a measure of the dispersion of frequency content around resonance. Similarly, the time constant is associated with the rate of energy decay in the time domain. Notably, the time-bandwidth limit for such systems is unity, indicating that achieving sharp frequency localization while simultaneously maintaining a slow energy decay is not feasible, nor is it possible to achieve a broad frequency spread while preserving a rapid energy decay. However, the time-bandwidth concept does not have a well-defined application to multi-degree of freedom systems characterized by strong modal interactions. This research aims to develop a comprehensive time and bandwidth concept for a linear two-DOF system with significant modal interactions. We focus on a non-classically damped system, which facilitates complex mode interactions, and we investigate how the definition of bandwidth and time constant can be applied to account for the slow dynamics observed in energy decay. By examining this system under various parameters, we gain insights into the energy decay behavior at specific time-bandwidth product regimes. Our analytical results are validated through experiments. Our findings elucidate the implications of the time-bandwidth product for a linear multi-DOF system's response and provide valuable insights into the influence of modal interactions on energy decay.

math.DS↗

arXiv2025

Bandwidth of Linear Classically Damped Systems with Application to Experimental Model Aircraft

Bandwidth is a widely known concept and tool used in structural dynamics to measure an oscillator's capacity to dissipate energy over time, for example when used in half-power damping estimation of structural modes. Root Mean Square (RMS) Bandwidth is a generalization of bandwidth that overcomes some of the limitations encountered with conventional bandwidth, including the prerequisite of linearity, single-mode response, and light damping. However, its mathematical form does not reveal much about the physics behind it. In this paper, we extend RMS Bandwidth to multiple degree-of-freedom, linear, time-invariant, classically damped systems by deriving an Analytical Root Mean Square (ARMS) Bandwidth in terms of a system's modal parameters and initial modal energy distribution. We demonstrate that ARMS Bandwidth reliably and accurately computes a single measure for a practical structure's dissipative capacity. Also, a purely data-driven methodology for assessing the modal energy distribution is developed. We apply ARMS Bandwidth to single and multiple degree-of-freedom systems and an experimental model aircraft to demonstrate its broad applicability. Future work will address the effects of non-classical damping distribution, time-varying parameters, and nonlinearities.

physics.app-ph↗

arXiv2025

Data-driven, Wavelet-based Identification and Reduced-order Modeling of Linear Systems with Closely Spaced Modes

This work presents a purely data-driven, wavelet-based framework for modal identification and reduced-order modeling of mechanical systems with assumed linear dynamics characterized by closely spaced modes with classical or non-classical damping distribution. Traditional Fourier-based methods often fail to reliably identify closely spaced modes or accurately capture modal interactions and complexities. To address these limitations, we propose a methodology leveraging the enhanced time -frequency resolution capabilities of the continuous wavelet transform (CWT). By selecting appropriate harmonic regions within the wavelet spectra, we effectively isolate modes, and then invert them back in the temporal domain by applying the inverse CWT (ICWT). In this way we reconstruct the corresponding modal dynamics in the time domain. Using the Hilbert transform, instantaneous phases are extracted for each identified mode, enabling the introduction of a complexified modal matrix which robustly characterizes the system's modal properties, even under challenging perturbations such as noise and uncertainties due to modal interference and unmodeled effects. The identified modal parameters are utilized to reconstruct the frequency response functions (FRFs) of the system and to develop a reduced-order model (ROM) that captures accurately the system's dominant dynamical behavior valid in a specified frequency range.. Validation of the methodology is conducted both with a numerical non-classical damping and an experimental testbed representing a model of an airplane structure. Results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in resolving intricate modal interactions and accurately reproducing the dynamic response of complex structural systems.

eess.SP↗

arXiv2025

Understanding Modal Interactions in Non-classically Damped Linear Oscillators with Closely Spaced Modes

This work addresses non-classically damped coupled oscillators with closely spaced modes focusing on the physics of modal interactions. Considering the simplest representative example in the form of an impulsively excited two-degree-of-freedom (two-DOF) system, we show that there is a single parameter defined as a coupling versus damping non-proportionality ratio, that separates two different dynamical regimes. Based on complexification-averaging analysis, we show that, below the critical value of this parameter, the system response possesses two distinct dissipation rates but only one frequency of oscillation; as a result, energy is slowly exchanged between modes in a single beat phenomenon. However, above the critical parameter value, the response has a single dissipation rate but two distinct oscillation frequencies; this yields an infinity of beat phenomena as energy is interchanged at a faster rate between modes. Our analytical predictions are fully validated by experimental measurements. Our findings highlight the physics of modal interactions in coupled oscillators and provide a framework for system identification and reduced-order modeling of systems with closely spaced modes.

physics.class-ph↗

arXiv2024

Sub-Bragg Phenomena in Multilayered Vibroacoustic Phononic Metamaterials

Beyond classical Bragg diffraction, we report on new sub-Bragg phenomena to achieve enhanced sound wave tunability in the low-frequency range in a multilayered acoustic metamaterial system. Remarkably, we reveal and study the formation of genuinely sub-wavelength Bragg-like band-splitting induced bandgaps, generalizing the band-folding induced bandgaps in the literature. Additionally, we propose a methodology to widen sub-wavelength local resonance bandgaps by simultaneously hosting two local resonances within the same bandgap. These sub-Bragg bandgaps are realized in an axisymmetric vibroacoustic phononic metamaterial consisting of repetitive multilayered unit cells, each composed of two layers of membrane-cavity resonators. The resulting coupled sound-structure interaction system is analytically solved in closed form. Furthermore, the studied multilayered vibroacoustic metamaterial exhibits sub-wavelength acoustical transparency, akin to electromagnetically induced transparency, and an acoustic analogue of low-frequency plasma oscillations, resulting in a plasma bandgap where wave propagation is entirely prohibited below the plasma frequency. These sub-wavelength phenomena, achieved predictively and well below the ubiquitous first-order Bragg diffraction range, provide broadband attenuation and superior wave manipulation capabilities for low-frequency sound. This highlights the potential of utilizing sound-structure interaction across diverse physical applications. Moreover, our findings can be extrapolated to wave propagation in broader classes of physical systems where sub-wavelength phenomena are crucial, including phononic and photonic crystals of more general configurations.

physics.app-ph↗

arXiv2024

Analytical Study of a Monolayered Vibroacoustic Metamaterial

This study investigates a vibroacoustic phononic metamaterial system composed of repeated monolayered membrane-air cavity unit-cells to assess its efficacy in controlling sound waves. Assuming low-frequency axisymmetric modes, the coupled membrane-cavity vibroacoustic system for a representative unit-cell is solved entirely analytically. Unlike previous research that relied on an infinite series of eigenfunctions, our analysis offers a single-term exact solution for the membrane's displacement field, fully accounting for coupling with the acoustic cavities. Utilizing the transfer matrix method and the Bloch-Floquet theorem, we offer a comprehensive analytical characterization of the band structure, including closed-form analytical expressions for determining the bounding frequencies of the bandgaps and the dispersion branches. Interaction between Bragg and local resonance bandgaps is examined by adjusting Bragg bandgap positions, with detailed mathematical descriptions provided for their overlapping and transition. Additionally, a "plasma bandgap" analogous to metallic plasma oscillations is identified, with a derived analytical expression for its frequency. First two passbands remain robust against cavity depth variations, limiting wave manipulation capabilities. Analysis of the finite phononic system involves constructing the global transfer matrix to study natural frequencies and scattering coefficients. Interaction between Bragg and local resonance bandgaps in finite systems results in ultra-narrow passbands, creating transparency windows analogous to electromagnetically induced transparency by quantum interference. This theoretical framework enables precise characterization and engineering of bandgaps in the monolayered vibroacoustic phononic metamaterial, highlighting its potential for controlling low-frequency sound wave propagation across multiple frequencies.

physics.app-ph↗

arXiv2023

Assessing the Dissipative Capacity of Particle Impact Dampers Based on their Nonlinear Bandwidth Characteristics

The dissipative capacity as quantified by the nonlinear bandwidth measure of impulsively loaded primary structures (PSs) coupled to particle impact dampers (PIDs) is assessed. The considered PIDs are designed by initially placing different numbers of spherical, linearly viscoelastic granules at different 2D initial topologies and clearances. The strongly nonlinear and highly discontinuous dynamics of the PIDs are simulated via the discrete element method taking Hertzian interactions, slipping friction and granular rotations into account. The general definition of nonlinear bandwidth is used to evaluate the energy dissipation capacity of the integrated PS-PID systems. Moreover, the effect of the dynamics of the PIDs on the time-bandwidth product of these systems is studied, as a measure of their capacity to store or dissipate vibration energy. It is found that the initial topologies of the granules in the PID drastically affect the time-bandwidth product, which, depending on shock intensity, may break the classical limit of unity which holds for linear time-invariant dissipative resonators. The optimal PS-PID systems composed of multiple granules produce large nonlinear bandwidths, indicating strong dissipative capacity of broadband input energy by the PIDs. Additionally, in the optimal configurations, the time-bandwidth product, i.e., the measure of the frequency bandwidth of the input shock that is stored in the PS-PID system, in tandem with the amount of time it takes for the system to dissipate (1/e) of the initial energy, can be tuned either above or below unity by varying the applied shock intensity. The implications of these findings on the dissipative capacity of the system considered are discussed, showing that it can be predictively assessed so that PIDs can act as highly effective nonlinear energy sinks capable of rapid and efficient suppression of vibration induced by shocks.

math.OC↗

arXiv2021

Generalization of the Concept of Bandwidth

In the sciences and engineering, the concept of bandwidth is often subject to interpretation depending upon context and the requirements of a specific community. The focus of this work is to formulate this concept for a general class of passive oscillatory dynamical systems, including but not limited to mechanical, structural, acoustic, electrical, and optical. Typically, the bandwidth of these systems is determined by the half-power (-3 dB) method, and the result is often referred to as half-power bandwidth. The fundamental assumption underlying this definition is that the system performance degrades once its power decreases by 50%; moreover, there are restrictive conditions that are rarely met. Here the concept of root mean square bandwidth is considered, justified by the Fourier uncertainty principle, to generalize the definition of bandwidth to encompass linear and nonlinear, single and multi-mode, low and high loss and time-varying and invariant oscillating systems. By tying the bandwidth of an oscillatory dynamical system directly to its dissipative capacity, one can formulate a definition based solely on its transient energy evolution, effectively circumventing the previous restrictions. Further, applications are given that highlight the limitations of the traditional half-power bandwidth; including a Duffing oscillator with hardening nonlinearity, and a geometrically nonlinear oscillator with tunable hardening or softening nonlinearity. The resulting energy-dependent bandwidth computations are compatible with the nonlinear dynamics of these systems, since at low energies they recover the half-power bandwidth, whereas at high energies they accurately capture the nonlinear physics. Moreover, the bandwidth computation is directly tied to nonlinear harmonic generation in the transient dynamics.

physics.gen-ph↗

arXiv2021

Exceeding the Classical Time-bandwidth Product in Nonlinear Time-invariant Systems

The classical 'time-bandwidth' limit for linear time-invariant (LTI) devices asserts that it is impossible to store broadband waves (large Δω's) for long times (large Δt's). For standing waves, i.e., vibrations, in particular, this limit takes on a simple form, Δt Δω = 1, where Δω is the bandwidth over which localization occurs, and Δt is the storage time. It remains a fundamental challenge in classical wave physics and vibration engineering to try to find ways to overcome this limit, not least because that would allow for storing broadband waves for long times, or achieve broadband resonance for low damping. Recent theoretical studies have suggested that such a feat might be possible in LTI terminated unidirectional waveguides or LTI topological 'rainbow trapping' devices, although an experimental confirmation of either concept is still lacking. In this work, we consider a nonlinear but time-invariant mechanical system and demonstrate experimentally that its time-bandwidth product can exceed the classical time-bandwidth limit, thus achieving values, both, above and below unity, in an energy-tunable way. Our proposed structure consists of a single degree-of-freedom nonlinear oscillator, rigidly coupled to a nondispersive waveguide. Upon developing the full theoretical framework for this class of nonlinear systems, we show how one may control the nonlinear flow of energy in the frequency domain, thereby managing to disproportionally decrease (increase) Δt, the storage time in the resonator, as compared with an increase (decrease) of the system's bandwidth Δω. Our results pave the way to conceiving and harnessing hitherto unattainable broadband and simultaneously low-loss wave-storage devices, both linear and nonlinear, for a host of key applications in wave physics and engineering.

physics.app-ph↗

arXiv2020

Global complexity effects due to local damping in a nonlinear system in 1:3 internal resonance

It is well-known that nonlinearity may lead to localization effects and coupling of internally resonant modes. However, research focused primarily on conservative systems commonly assumes that the near-resonant forced response closely follows the autonomous dynamics. Our results for even a simple system of two coupled oscillators with a cubic spring clearly contradict this common belief. We demonstrate analytically and numerically global effects of a weak local damping source in a harmonically forced nonlinear system under condition of 1:3 internal resonance: The global motion becomes asynchronous, i.e., mode complexity is introduced with a non-trivial phase difference between the modal oscillations. In particular, we show that a maximum mode complexity with a phase difference of $90^\circ$ is attained in a multi-harmonic sense. This corresponds to a transition from generalized standing to traveling waves in the system's modal space. We further demonstrate that the localization is crucially affected by the system's damping. Finally, we propose an extension of the definition of mode complexity and mode localization to nonlinear quasi-periodic motions, and illustrate their application to a quasi-periodic regime in the forced response.

nlin.PS↗

arXiv2020

Toward understanding the self-adaptive dynamics of a harmonically forced beam with a sliding mass

A mechanical system consisting of an elastic beam under harmonic excitation and an attached sliding body is investigated. Recent experimental observations suggest that the system passively (self-)adapts the axial location of the slider to achieve and maintain a condition of self-resonance, which could be useful in applications such as energy harvesting. The purpose of this work is to provide a theoretical explanation of this phenomenon based on an appropriate model. A key feature of the proposed model is a small clearance between the slider and the beam. This clearance gives rise to backlash and frictional contact interactions, both of which are found to be essential for the self-adaptive behavior. Contact is modeled in terms of the Coulomb and Signorini laws, together with the Newton impact law. The set-valued character of the contact laws is accounted for in a measure differential inclusion formulation. Numerical integration is carried out using Moreau's time-stepping scheme. The proposed model reproduces qualitatively most experimental observations. However, although the system showed a distinct self-adaptive character, the behavior was found to be non-resonant for the considered set of parameters. Beside estimating the relationship between resonance frequency and slider location, the model permits predicting the operating limits with regard to excitation level and frequency. Finally, some specific dynamical phenomena such as hysteresis effects and transient resonance captures underline the rich dynamical behavior of the system.

nlin.AO↗

arXiv2020

On the Efficacy of Friction Damping in the Presence of Nonlinear Modal Interactions

This work addresses friction-induced modal interactions in jointed structures, and their effects on the passive mitigation of vibrations by means of friction damping. Under the condition of (nearly) commensurable natural frequencies, the nonlinear character of friction can cause so-called nonlinear modal interactions. If harmonic forcing near the natural frequency of a specific mode is applied, for instance, another mode may be excited due to nonlinear energy transfer and thus contribute considerably to the vibration response. We investigate how this phenomenon affects the performance of friction damping. To this end, we study the steady-state, periodic forced vibrations of a system of two beams connected via a local mechanical friction joint. The system can be tuned to continuously adjust the ratio between the first two natural frequencies in the range around the $1:3$ internal resonance, in order to trigger or suppress the emergence of modal interactions. Due to the re-distribution of the vibration energy, the vibration level can in fact be reduced in certain situations. However, in other situations, the multi-harmonic character of the vibration has detrimental effects on the effective damping provided by the friction joint. The resulting response level can be significantly larger than in the absence of modal interactions. Moreover, it is shown that the vibration behavior is highly sensitive in the neighborhood of internal resonances. It is thus concluded that the condition of internal resonance should be avoided in the design of friction-damped systems.

nlin.PS↗