The Use of Unique Time History Input Excitation in the Dynamic Characterization of Automotive Mounts

The traditional method of dynamic characterization of elastomers used in industry has largely been based on sinusoidal input excitation. Discrete frequency sine wave signals at specified amplitudes are used to excite the elastomer in a step-sine sweep fashion. This paper will examine new methods of characterization using various broadband input excitations. These different inputs include continuous sine sweep (chirp), shaped random, and acquired road profile data. Use of these broadband data types is expected to provide a more accurate representation of conditions seen in the field, while helping to eliminate much of the interpolation that is inherent with the classic discrete step-sine technique. Results of the various input types are compared in this paper with those found using the classic discrete step-sine input. One of the challenges lies in accurate reproduction of specific time histories, which is achieved using an iterative method in a hydraulic high-frequency elastomer test machine. This paper will elaborate on the time-history based method, as well as provide a description of accurate digital signal post-processing methods recommended for the various types of input.