Using a Rigid Restraint with a Built-In Tuned Mass Damper to Control the Vibration of Cables

Cables are widely utilized as load-carrying members due to their excellent mechanical properties. However, the inherent damping of cables is usually extremely low, thereby causing undesired vibrations to occur frequently under various external excitations. This study investigates the utilization of rigid restraints with a built-in tuned mass damper to mitigate the vibration of cables. First, the configuration of a rigid restraint with a built-in tuned mass damper is presented, followed by the development of a problem formulation for controlled cables using such a device. A discrete model is further established to describe the dynamic behavior of the system. Thereafter, a series of numerical simulations are conducted. The influence of the mass ratio of the tuned mass damper and installation position is analyzed. Then, examples are presented to verify the control effectiveness under sinusoidal excitations. As indicated by the numerical results, the proposed device can mitigate cable vibration exceptionally well. Taking aerodynamic effects into account, model cables and control devices are manufactured. Two installation positions, namely, quarter-span and mid-span, are considered. Wind tunnel tests are performed. As shown by the experimental tests, the proposed rigid restraint with a built-in tuned mass damper can suppress the first two modal vibrations. Overall, the rigid restraint with built-in tuned mass damper can mitigate cable vibration, though several issues should be further addressed.