Project Title:

Vibration Absorption Patch

  94-1	09.08	0155

  Vibration Absorption Patch 

Abstract:

Deployable structures are a critical aspect of virtually all 
spacecraft. Innovative approaches are needed to meet stringent 
requirements for deployment of solar arrays, antennae, etc., 
but spacecraft development costs must decrease. One approach 
which will allow development of cost effective deployable 
structures is the use of low profile, self-contained vibration 
absorption "patches" (VAP) to damp vibrations caused during 
deployment, as well as routine spacecraft operation. Such 
"smart" VAPs possess high-level integration of motion sensing, 
control implementation, and actuation capabilities, requiring 
only supply of electrical power and simple bonding to 
preferred structural appendages. The objective of this 
research effort is to develop a smart vibration absorption 
patch based on induced strain actuation and localized motion 
sensing using lithographically processed piezoceramic 
filaments embedded in a compliant matrix. These small diameter 
filaments (typically 125 micron) are processed with novel 
surface electrode patterns which result in low actuation 
voltages and highly directional mechanical coupling with the 
substrate to which they are bonded. Signal processing and 
control implementation will be accomplished using on-patch 
circuit elements. The Phase I effort will establish system-
level application requirements and design a patch 
configuration for development and validation under the Phase 
II program. 

Smart vibration absorption patches can have widespread 
applications in military and civil markets by providing 
inexpensive solutions for vibration isolation or damping problems 
in old and new systems alike. With simple power connects and low 
profile packaging, such devices could be located internal or 
exterior to many structures, including:  
* Deployable Spacecraft		* Precision Optical Trusses
Structures
* Aircraft Appendages		* Measurement & Instrumentation
* Sports Equipment; Skis, 	* Machine Tool Control
Racquets, etc. 
* Production Machinery & 	* Automotive Structures
Fabrication
* Pipe Flow and Chemical		* others
Processing

Key Words

Sarcos Research Corporation
390 Wakara Way, Suite 44
Salt Lake City, UT 84108