Multi-input multi-output feedforward control of multi-harmonic gearbox vibrations using parallel adaptive notch filters in the principal component space

Abstract Rotating mechanical systems such as gearbox are known to generate vibrations at specific frequencies. The generation of asymmetric frequency sidebands around gear meshing frequencies is typical of rotating systems, and often results in amplitude-modulated disturbances. In addition, when the angular speed of such systems exhibits small time variations, a frequency-modulation of the disturbance tones is observed. Such conditions may result in difficulties for feedforward active control systems based on short, finite impulse response control filters, as was observed by previous researchers. This is mainly due to the fact that the reference signal may not provide all the gear meshing frequencies and sidebands found in the disturbance. This work investigates adaptive notch filters in the principal component space to cancel multi-harmonic gearbox vibrations. Experimental results obtained with these adaptive notch filters show good control attenuations at targeted gearbox tones, without amplification of other closely located, unreferenced tones.