Damped response analysis of nonlinear cushion systems by a linearization method

The whole cushion buffer is first represented by a multi-degree-of-freedom system in this model. Nonlinear characteristics and viscous damping are included in the system. The developed mathematical model provides a practical and reliable method to predict the dynamic behaviors of nonlinear systems with viscous damping. The effects of nonlinear characteristics and viscous damping in the protection of packaged products are both discussed in this paper. The discussion provides a useful insight that both nonlinear characteristics and viscous damping can reduce “rigid impact” to certain level.