Low-frequency band gaps in chains with attached non-linear oscillators

The aim of this article is to investigate the wave propagation in one-dimensional chains with attached non-linear local oscillators by using analytical and numerical models. The focus is on the influence of non-linearities on the filtering properties of the chain in the low frequency range. Periodic systems with alternating properties exhibit interesting dynamic characteristics that enable them to act as filters.

Waves can propagate along them within specific bands of frequencies called pass bands, and attenuate within bands of frequencies called stop bands or band gaps. Stop bands in structures with periodic or random inclusions are located mainly in the high frequency range, as the wavelength has to be comparable with the distance between the alternating parts.

Band gaps may also exist in structures with locally attached oscillators. In the linear case the gap is located around the resonant frequency of the oscillators, and thus a stop band can be created in the lower frequency range. In the case with non-linear oscillators the results show that the position of the band gap can be shifted, and the shift depends on the amplitude and the degree of non-linear behaviour.