Perturbation analysis of a clearance-type nonlinear system

This study applies the method of multiple scales to obtain periodic solutions of a two-pulley belt system with clearance-type nonlinearity. The purpose is to explain the published numerical results and clarify how design parameters affect the system dynamics. The validity of the perturbation method for such strong nonlinearity is evaluated. The closed-form frequency–response relation is determined at the first order, and an implicit expression is obtained for the second-order approximation. The preload applied to the accessory determines the softening level of the nonlinearity. Larger preload leads to less disengagement and less softening. For a considerable range of practical parameter values, the analytical solutions well approximate the numerical results from harmonic balance.