Translational Algebraic Component

Purpose

Define an algebraic constraint in terms of force and speed

Library

Mechanical / Translational / Components

Description

The Translational Algebraic Component enforces an arbitrary algebraic constraint involving force and speed.

The output signal “v” measures the speed of the marked flange with respect to the unmarked one. The output signal “F” measures the force flow from the unmarked towards the marked flange. The two output signals must affect the input signal “0” by means of a direct feedthrough path. The component ensures that the input signal is zero at all times.

The direct feedthrough path defines a function \(f(v,F)\), which in turn implicitly determines the speed-force characteristic of the component through the constraint \(f(v,F)=0\). For instance, the choice \(f(v,F):=F+D \cdot v\) causes the Translational Algebraic Component to act as a Translational Damper with damping constant \(D\).

The Translational Algebraic Component offers no direct way to specify an initial displacement. In case you need to do so, place a Translational Damper with zero damping constant in parallel to the component and set the initial displacement property thereof.

By way of illustration, Fig. 281 shows a possible implementation of a translational damper with variable damping constant and prescribed initial displacement.

Fig. 281 Variable translational damper implementation example

Note

The Translational Algebraic Component creates an algebraic loop. See Block Sorting for more information on algebraic loops.

Probe Signals

Component force

The force flow from the unmarked towards the marked flange.

Component speed

The speed of the marked flange with respect to the unmarked one.

Component power

The power consumed by the component.