Design and Vibration Isolation Investigation of a Load-Adjustable Quasi-Zero Stiffness Isolator

Quasi-zero Stiffness (QZS) isolators offer significant advantages in low-frequency vibration isolation. Nonetheless, the complexity of the structure and the limited load adaptability hinder the practical application of such isolators. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel load-adjustable QZS isolator based on a compliant mechanism. By integrating the positive stiffness of the curved beam and the negative one of the inclined beam, a comprehensive design strategy for the QZS flexible beam is introduced. The optimal geometric parameters of the structure are determined using a genetic algorithm, and the finite element simulations are employed to numerically validate the QZS characteristics of the structure as well as the low-frequency vibration isolation performance. Leveraging the same structural design and a kind of temperature-sensitive materials-Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), a unit cell of load-adjustable QZS isolator controlled by electric heating is developed and fabricated via 3D printing. Static and dynamic tests are conducted to explore the QZS platform characteristics and vibration isolation performance of the isolator subjected to various voltage inputs. The results demonstrate that the QZS characteristics of the isolator can be effectively regulated by adjusting the input voltage, ensuring effective low-frequency vibration isolation under different loads. Moreover, the incorporation of serial and parallel arrangements of unit cells could further enhance the range of load adjustability. This study offers novel insights into the design of load-adjustable QZS isolators.