EE331 — Homework: Modeling of Dynamic Systems
Instructions. Show all steps clearly. Use consistent sign conventions and define your variables.
Unless stated otherwise, assume zero initial conditions when taking Laplace transforms.
Exercise 1: Two-DOF vertical mass–spring–damper system
Figure 1 shows a 2-DOF mechanical system with two masses M1 and M2 , springs K1 , K2 , and
dampers B1 , B2 . The input force f (t) acts on M1 . The displacements are y1 (t) and y2 (t) (positive
downward).
Figure 1: 2-DOF vertical system.
(a) Write the equations of motion using Newton’s second law for both masses. Express them in
terms of y1 (t), y2 (t), and their derivatives.
(b) Write the system in matrix form:
y1 (t)
M ÿ + B ẏ + K y = F(t), y(t) = .
y2 (t)
Identify M, B, K, and F(t).
(c) Assuming zero initial conditions, take the Laplace transform and obtain two algebraic equa-
tions in Y1 (s) and Y2 (s).
1
Exercise 2: Two-DOF horizontal system with coupling damper
Figure 2 shows a 2-DOF horizontal system. The masses M1 and M2 are connected to ground by
springs K1 and K2 , respectively. Each mass has viscous damping with the ground (B1 , B2 ). A
damper B3 couples the two masses. The input is a force f (t) applied to M1 . Displacements are
x1 (t) and x2 (t) to the right.
Figure 2: 2-DOF horizontal system with coupling damper B3 .
(a) Draw free-body diagrams for M1 and M2 and write the differential equations of motion.
(b) Put the equations in matrix form (define x(t) = [x1 (t) x2 (t)]⊤ ).
X2 (s)
(c) Assuming zero initial conditions, derive .
F (s)
(d) Consider the special case B3 = 0. Explain (in one or two sentences) how the system dynamics
change.
Exercise 3: Mechanical–Electrical analogy (force–voltage or force–
current)
Figure 3 shows a mass–spring–damper system driven by a force f (t) and two electrical circuit
representations.
2
Figure 3: Mechanical system (left) and electrical analogies (right).
(a) Write the differential equation relating f (t) and the displacement y(t) for the mechanical
system.
(b) Using the force–voltage analogy, identify the electrical elements corresponding to M , B,
and K. Write the circuit differential equation relating e(t) and the chosen electrical output.
(c) Derive the transfer function from input to output.
Exercise 4: Series RLC circuit and equivalent mechanical model
Figure 4 shows a series RLC circuit driven by a voltage source e(t) and current i(t).
Figure 4: Series RLC circuit.
3
(a) Using KVL, derive the time-domain differential equation relating e(t) and i(t).
(b) Express the equation in terms of capacitor voltage vC (t) as the output (optional: choose your
output and state it clearly).
(c) Assuming zero initial conditions, derive the transfer function:
I(s) VC (s)
and/or .
E(s) E(s)