Reducing weight without sacrificing functionality, stability and safety is an ongoing issue in many industrial sectors. An additional requirement is noise development in dynamically loaded lightweight constructions. These are susceptible to resonance phenomena, which lead to increased vibration amplitudes and can affect not only the service life of the components but also the comfort of the user. The aim of the “LEICHT_DISS” project was therefore to use innovative energy-dissipative elements to optimize the structural-dynamic properties within lightweight structures in dynamically loaded systems, while at the same time minimizing the total mass of the components used.
The project team combined experimental investigations with advanced simulation methods to design a family of customizable damping elements that dissipate vibration energy via frictional effects while improving the dynamic response of lightweight structures. The developed damping elements were tested in a demonstrator component, a tailgate. The targeted integration of these elements into the structure made it possible to replace the massive vibration absorbers that were previously used for damping. This allowed significant weight savings to be achieved without compromising the functionality and safety of the components.
The results of this project not only offer the industry innovative solutions for increasing efficiency, but also make a decisive contribution to more sustainable and resource-saving production processes in lightweight construction.
Project results
New innovative damping elements for lightweight structures
The “LEICHT_DISS” project enabled new energy-dissipative elements to be developed that can be seamlessly integrated into dynamically loaded lightweight structures. By using joint damping, a significant reduction in vibration amplitudes was achieved while simultaneously reducing weight. These cutting-edge damping elements enable a more efficient use of materials and promote the development of lighter and more efficient components.
Optimized digital development process
A virtual product development process was set up that combines experimental tests and simulations. By linking MBSE (Model Based Systems Engineering) with realistic models, the prediction quality of the dynamic behavior of lightweight components has been significantly improved. This enables early performance testing as well as weight optimization and leads to shorter development times and lower costs, as adjustments can already be made in the design phase.
Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM