Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference:	GR/R77292/01
Title:	ROPA: A Novel Approach to Vibration Attenuation by Exploiting Nonlinear Energy Transfer Concepts
Principal Investigator:	Tomlinson, Professor G
Other Investigators:
Researcher Co-Investigators:
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Department:	Mechanical Engineering
Organisation:	University of Sheffield
Scheme:	ROPA
Starts:	01 October 2002	Ends:	30 September 2004	Value (£):	136,931
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:	Eng. Dynamics & Tribology Materials testing & eng.
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
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Panel History:
Summary on Grant Application Form
Abstract of proposed research (not exceeding 100 words) The proposed research takes a completely unconventional approach to vibration suppression by deliberately introducing nonlinearity in a novel manner. The concept is based on the fact that nonlinearity introduces harmonics which, via the techniques to be developed, can be exploited to spread or focus the output energy in a defined manner. By introducing a specified nonlinear device or material between the input to a system, the output energy can be controlled in a specific way avoiding or minimising resonant conditions. The research proposal will develop the mathematical framework to achieve this and investigate nonlinear materials that will offer the realisation of the concept. This research takes a totally new approach to vibration suppression; it does not rely on damping, vibration isolation or tuned vibration absorbers i.e. traditional approaches. The concept as such is high risk but at the same time is feasible as shown by the initial studies. The research study will focus on the development of a generic mathematical approach using simple single degree of freedom models and the study of nonlinear (Fourier Rheological materials) to realise the concept. The application potential is seen as being considerable, leading to take-up in the spectrum of engineering industries embodying vibration, acoustics and communications.
Key Findings
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Organisation Website:	http://www.shef.ac.uk