Classification of periodic orbits for systems with backlash

In this paper systems with backlash are studied for the effect of excitation parameters on the periodic response. These systems are modeled as piecewise linear systems with discontinuity in the net restoring force, caused by additional damping in the contact zone. The periodic orbits are classified by their number of subspace boundary crossings and, alternatively, by the largest Floquet multipliers. Some observations are also presented about the qualitative features such as symmetry breaking bifurcations exhibited by this class of systems.