Development of a Magnetostrictive Rubber Isolation Mount (MARIM)

The MAgnetostrictive Rubber Isolation Mount (MARIM) program is to develop a rubber isolation mount with embedded magnetic particles. The embedded magnetic particles will add magnetostrictive properties to the rubber mount that can be used to enhance the passive or active isolation characteristics of the mount. The use of rubber mounts is the preferred engineering approach to isolate mechanical systems from vibration and shock and design engineers are always looking for improved mounts. Magnetostriction is the phenomena characterized by a material changing its length when placed in electro-magnetic field. The process is reversible, that is; the material generates an electro-magnetic field when it is deformed by external forces. These properties allow magnetostrictive materials to be used as sensors or actuators. Unfortunately current magnetostrictive materials (Terfenol-D) are mechanically stiff and cannot accommodate the large displacements required for isolation mount applications. In Phase 1, the MARIM program will investigate the feasibility of adding magnetostrictive properties to rubber isolation mounts. Feasibility of this novel concept will be studied by investigating possible fabrication techniques, resulting electrical and mechanical properties, the application envelope, passive and active control concepts, and a design methodology. Phase I will also prepare a preliminary design for prototyping in Phase II. Anticipated Benefits/Potential Applications - With a MARIM mount, component and system life can be extended, system availability can be increased, component cost can be reduced, maintenance expenditures can be lowered and system performance can be improved. A MARIM has wide application in military, civil, and commercial vehicles and associated equipment. Sensitive electronics in a variety of industries (e.g. aircraft, medical, etc.) will be more effectively protected and isolated. MARIM application in the machine tool industry will yield more accurate machine tools and high precisi machining.