Abstract
To predict the vibration environment of a payload carried by a ground or air transporter, mathematical models are required from which a transfer function to a prescribed input can be calculated. For sensitive payloads these models typically include linear shock isolation system stiffness and damping elements relying on the assumption that the isolation system has a predetermined characteristic frequency and damping ratio independent of excitation magnitude. In order to achieve a practical spectral analysis method, the nonlinear system has to be linearized when the input transportation and handling vibration environment is in the form of an acceleration power spectral density. Test data from commercial isolators show that when nonlinear stiffness and damping effects exist the level of vibration input causes a variation in isolator resonant frequency. This phenomenon, described by the stationary response of the Duffing oscillator to narrow-band Gaussian random excitation, requires an alternative approach for calculation of power spectral density acceleration response at a shock isolated payload under random vibration. This article details the development of a plausible alternative approach for analyzing the spectral response of a nonlinear system subject to random Gaussian excitations.