Abstract
This paper presents a method of analyzing closed-loop systems under cyclic motion of the self-sustaining type, as caused by the presence of dead band. One common form of dead band considered occurs in mechanical linkages in conjunction with spring action, inertia, and viscous damping. The analysis is shown to be facilitated by means of an equivalent system representation. Simpler types of dead band, derivable from the more complex case, are considered. Stability criteria are developed, and the conditions are established under which sustained oscillations occur. The frequency and amplitude of oscillation may be predicted satisfactorily. Furthermore, the results are in a form which clearly indicates ways of suppressing the undesirable oscillations. One way of eliminating the hunting caused by dead band is shown. In support of the analysis the results of a differential-analyzer study are presented.