Solid State Piezoelectric Flexure Mechanism for Vibration Attenuation/Isolation

The proposed effort focuses on the need for innovative, space realizable, self-contained solid state flexure mechanism for vibration attenuation/isolation. The proposed mechanism is a sealed linear actuator capable of high bandwidth (0-1 kHz) control. A design feasibility study will be performed on the use of piezoelectrics in an innovative flexure mechanism to provide robust vibration attenuation/isolation. The specific design concept involves use of a flexure mechanism that removes the piezoelectric element from the load path and provides increased bandwidth and displacement. All supporting electronics including sensor signal processing, microprocessor, and power management are to be included within the device. Advantages of this particular design include an ability to: dimensionally customize the device for a specific design need, tune active/passive vibration characteristics, operate self-contained, and choose between independent sensing and actuation or the use of a self-sensing technique for control. The result of achieving the design objectives will be a device that requires low maintenance and can be implemented with minimal effort in almost any positioning and/or vibration isolation application. Potential commercial products include active vibration isolation mounts, impact dampers, active members for vibration suppression, or as use as a reaction mass actuator. United Technology Corporation has shown interest in the proposed innovation for commercial application to helicopters, elevators, turbomachinery, propeller systems, HVAC systems, and automotive subsystems as demonstrated by the letter of participation included in this proposal.