MATLAB Simulation Program for Semi-Active Vibration Control Using MR Dampers

Semi-active vibration control represents a crucial method in structural engineering for mitigating vibrations induced by external excitations such as wind loads or earthquakes. Magnetorheological (MR) dampers have emerged as a research focus due to their rapid response characteristics, low energy consumption, and tunable damping properties.

Implementing MR damper semi-active control simulations in MATLAB typically involves several key components: First, establishing a structural dynamics model, generally described using state-space equations to characterize the motion behavior of structures like buildings or bridges. Second, designing mathematical models for MR dampers, where commonly used Bouc-Wen or modified Bingham models simulate their nonlinear hysteresis behavior through differential equations that can be implemented using MATLAB's ODE solvers.

Regarding control strategies, semi-active algorithms (such as LQR, fuzzy control, or clipped-optimal control) dynamically adjust the voltage/current applied to MR dampers to modify damping forces, ensuring control forces always oppose structural motion directions. The implementation typically requires real-time calculation of optimal control signals within MATLAB's control system toolbox. During simulation, special attention must be paid to the stability of numerical integration methods (like Newmark-β or Runge-Kutta) when solving nonlinear equations, which can be handled using MATLAB's built-in numerical integration functions.

The typical simulation workflow includes: defining input signals for earthquake/wind loads, setting controller parameters through optimization routines, and comparing displacement/acceleration responses between passive and semi-active control systems. Time history analysis clearly demonstrates MR dampers' effectiveness in suppressing peak responses and residual vibrations, with results visualization through MATLAB's plotting capabilities.