A magnetorheological fluid embedded pneumatic vibration isolator allowing independently adjustable stiffness and damping

A magnetorheological (MR) fluid embedded pneumatic vibration isolator (MrEPI) with hybrid and compact connection of pneumatic spring and MR damping elements is proposed in this study. The proposed MrEPI system allows independent nonlinear stiffness and damping control with considerable maneuverable ranges. Meanwhile, it allows convenient switching between different passive and active vibration control modes, thus providing more flexibility and versatility in applications. To demonstrate the advantageous dynamic performance of the MrEPI, a nonlinear non-dimensional dynamic model is developed with full consideration of the nonlinear elements involved. A systematic analysis is therefore conducted which can clearly reveal the influence on system output performance caused by each physically important parameter and provide a useful insight into the analysis and design of nonlinear vibration isolators with pneumatic and MR elements.