Coupled vibration isolation/suppression system for space applications: aspects of structural design

Vibrations have long been a source of problems for space systems, with acoustic and aerodynamic excitations causing failures during launch and periodic disturbances degrading performance on-orbit. In exploring new solutions to such problems, research at The Aerospace Corporation has recently considered the applicability of piezoceramic based adaptive structures to space systems. A small-scale testbed has been developed comprised of active mounting brackets that can isolate payloads from disturbances and an active payload platform that can suppress vibrations generated by payload instruments. Various issues related to practical applications have been explored through this representative system, and in this paper the aspects of structural design and structural modeling are explored. Payload capabilities are bounded for realistic launch environments, and the accuracy of structural modeling techniques for the integrated system is considered. Through this effort, the feasibility and potential utility of space structures with integrated piezoceramic transducers is investigated. The paper concludes with a discussion of potential applications for such a system, and examines considerations for the transition to practical space systems.