Characterization of non-linear bearings using the Hilbert–Huang transform

• Main Authors: Arturo González, Hussein Aied
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publishing 2015-04-01
• Series: Advances in Mechanical Engineering
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1177/1687814015582120

Changes in the performance of bearings can significantly vary the distribution of internal forces and moments in a structure as a result of environmental or operational loads. The response of a bearing has been traditionally idealized using a linear model but a non-linear representation produces a more accurate picture at the expense of modelling complexity and computational time. In this article, a lead rubber bearing is idealized using the hysteretic Bouc–Wen model. The Hilbert–Huang transform is then employed to characterize the features of the non-linear system from the instantaneous frequencies of the bearing response to a time-varying force. Instantaneous frequencies are also shown to be a useful tool in detecting sudden damage to the bearings simulated by a reduction in the effective stiffness of the force-deformation loop.