Masakatsu Chiba

A smart dynamic vibration absorber for suppressing the vibration of a string supported by flexible beams

This study aims to effectively and robustly suppress the vibration of tension-stabilized structures (TSSs) using a smart dynamic vibration absorber (DVA). In recent years, a strong need has emerged for high-precision and high-functionality space structural systems for realizing advanced space missions. TSSs have attracted attention in this regard as large yet lightweight structural systems with high storage efficiency. A fundamental issue in the application of TSSs is vibration control of strings, of which TSSs are predominantly composed. In particular, the suppression of microvibrations is difficult because the deformation is almost perpendicular to the direction of vibration. A DVA is an effective device for suppressing microvibrations. However, the damping performance is sensitive to changes in dynamic properties. Furthermore, aging degradation and temperature dependence negatively affect DVA performance. This study aimed to develop a smart, active DVA with self-sensing actuation to improve robustness. A small cantilever with a piezoelectric transducer was utilized as a smart DVA. Numerical simulations and experiments showed that a passive DVA and the smart DVA suppressed vibrations but that the smart DVA showed improved effectiveness and robustness.