| The work presented here represents the first step in the design, development, testing, and theoretical analysis of a new, controllable, magneto-rheological fluid shock absorber. The theoretical component of this research, originating from the Bingham Plastic model, is a parametric theoretical model with the capacity to predict damping behavior of the shock for the entire range of damping. A three-dimensional magnetic field finite element analysis was performed to determine magnetic field traits required for the theoretical model and design optimization.; The experimental component of this research for this new MR damper design is the application of off-highway, high-payload vehicles. While the damper design was tailored for the U.S. Army's HMMWV (High Mobility, Multi-Wheeled Vehicle), it represents one of the potential applications of this technology. Several proof-of-concept MR shock absorbers were designed, built and tested to experimentally to support the theoretical model. The results of this research indicate that this technology shows great promise for structures and systems.; A provisional patent has been filed to protect the intellectual property contained in this research. |
