TUTORIAL

Mathematical Modelling of Mechanical Systems

Question 1

A seismic transducer is attached to a rigid base. The seismic weight of mass 𝑚 is supported
by the spring of stiffness 𝑘and the damper of damping coefficient 𝐶. Derive the equations of
motion of the system.

Figure 1

Question 2

The block of mass 𝑚 is restricted to move along the vertical axis along 𝑥1 . It is supported by
a spring of stiffness 𝑘1 , a spring of stiffness 𝑘2 and a damper of damping coefficient 𝑐. The
upper end of the spring 𝑘2 moves along the axis 𝑥2 .

Provide the equation of motion of the block.

Question 3 (Fabien, Chapter 1, Q16 a

The block of mass 𝑚 is now restricted to move along the horizontal axis along 𝑥1 . It is supported by a
spring of stiffness 𝑘1 , and a damper of damping coefficient 𝑐. An external force is applied to the
mass. Provide the equation of motion of the block.

Figure 3

Question 4 (Fabien Chapter 1, Q16 a)

Derive the equation of motion of the mass 𝑚 shown in the Figure below.
Question 5

Two blocks of mass 𝑚1 and 𝑚2 is restricted to move along the horizontal axis along 𝑥.

They are supported by two springs of stiffness 𝑘1 and 𝑘2 , and two dampers with damping coefficient
𝑐1 and 𝑐2 respectively. The second mass is connected to a rigid body by a spring 𝑘3 . Derive the
equation of motion of the blocks.

Figure 5

Question 6

Consider the mass of 𝑚1 connected to the mass 𝑚2 through a spring with a spring stiffness 𝑘1 and
damper system with a damping coefficient 𝑐1 . The mass 𝑚1 is connected to a rigid wall by spring 𝑘2 .

Derive the equation of motion of the blocks.

Question 7

A power winch on mass 𝑚1 is mounted on a truss. The winch is connected to the truss through a
spring and damper system. The winch is connected to a mass 𝑚2 through a cable which can be
modelled as a spring.

Derive the equations of motion for the system.