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University of Wyoming

UW Technologies Available for Licensing

 

LICENSED - Technology Disclosure: 02-006 Mechanical Damping System for Structures- LICENSED

 

Problem

Fatigue in traffic and sign structures across the U.S. and Canada in recent years has become a concern. Specifically, an alarming number of sign and signal failures have occurred where the cross-member falls to the ground as a result of significant “bouncing” or “galloping” of the cross member caused by wind. These structures are generally light and have low inherent damping; traffic signal structures, in particular, have a low fundamental period of vibration, contributing to galloping of the structure in wind. Galloping can cause large vertical displacements even in relatively mild wind.



Solution

Researchers at the University of Wyoming have developed a mechanical system that operates as a damper on pole cross members so that any vibrations are counter-acted, thereby preventing fatigue and failure. So, whether the wind is a mild breeze or something considerably stronger, the mechanical damping system will adjust its response to be equal and opposite to the vibration, thereby reducing stress to the structure. The invention also includes an omni-directional damping of movement of a structure including in-plane and out-of-plane directions to further reduce fatigue cracks. Other features include:

• Ease of installation and maintenance.
• Relatively low noise output (system will not exhibit objectionably loud noises)
• Aesthetically pleasing
• Tuning capabilities increased for matching the natural frequency of the structure

This technology is protected by US patent 6,857,615.

If you would like to learn more about this novel method for mechanical damping system for structures and how your company may apply it in commercial situations, please contact the director of the University of Wyoming Research Products Center, Davona Douglass.