A design methodology for nonlinear oscillator chains enabling energy localization tuning and soliton stability enhancement with optimal damping

In this paper, the vibration energy localization in coupled nonlinear oscillators is investigated, based on the creation of standing solitons. The main objective is to establish a design methodology for mechanical lattices using the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation (NLSE) as a guide strategy, even in the presence of damping. A three-dimensional diagram is used to illustrate stable parameter regions for damped stationary solitons. Moreover, an analysis of the influence of the number of oscillators in the system, and a numerical investigation regarding the stability of solitonic behavior is done. Through numerical analyses, it is observed that the developed algorithm not only has the capability to locate the highest amplitudes in the chain of oscillators, but also to control the intensity at which these amplitudes are located according to design requirements. The outcomes of the proposed methodology elucidate the impact that the coupling stiffness has on the stabilization of the NLSE, as well as the influence of the number of oscillators on the continuity hypothesis. The developed algorithm holds potential for practical applications in mechanical engineering since the NLSE is used as a design line rather than as a consequence of the phenomenon description.