Active Vibration Isolation via Fluid Pumping Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vibration isolation systems in rotorcrafts, such as helicopters and tiltrotors, face challenges in effectively isolating vibrations across a range of frequencies due to passive systems being tuned at a single frequency, which compromises performance when rotor speeds vary.
Innovation Solution
An active vibration isolation system utilizing a fluid pumping system with a piston assembly and eccentric member, controlled by motors and a controller, to dynamically adjust fluid flow and frequency response, allowing for efficient vibration isolation across varying frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passive vibration isolation systems are tuned at a single frequency, then vibration isolation is effective at that specific frequency, but performance deteriorates when rotor speeds vary and frequencies change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static passive vibration isolation system to an active system with dynamically adjustable parameters. The fluid pumping system actively modulates fluid flow through the LIVETM unit, allowing the system to adapt its frequency response characteristics in real-time to match varying rotor speeds and vibration frequencies, thereby maintaining effectiveness across a broad frequency range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by actively varying the fluid flow rate through the LIVETM unit using a controlled pumping system. By changing the flow parameters (rate, timing, amplitude) in response to detected vibration frequencies, the system adjusts its isolation characteristics dynamically, enabling effective vibration suppression across multiple frequencies rather than being limited to a single tuned frequency
2Adaptability or versatility
If active vibration isolation systems are used to cover a range of frequencies, then frequency adaptability is improved, but system weight and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes pneumatics and hydraulics by employing a fluid-based vibration isolation mechanism (LIVETM unit) combined with a controlled pumping system. This approach replaces heavier mechanical active isolation systems with a fluid dynamics-based solution, achieving frequency adaptability through fluid flow modulation while maintaining reduced weight compared to traditional active isolation systems with multiple actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a single fluid pumping system that can effectively isolate vibrations across a broad frequency range, replacing what would traditionally require multiple frequency-specific passive isolators or a complex array of active actuators. The fluid system's ability to be dynamically adjusted makes it a universal solution for multiple vibration frequencies
3Adaptability or versatility
If active vibration isolation systems are used to cover a range of frequencies, then frequency adaptability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using a pumping system that delivers fluid in periodic pulses synchronized with the vibration frequency. This periodic fluid delivery creates corresponding periodic forces that counteract vibrations, enabling frequency-adaptive isolation while consuming less power than continuous-operation active isolation systems, as the pump operates intermittently in sync with vibration cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service through a feedback control system that automatically detects vibration frequencies and adjusts the fluid pumping parameters accordingly. The system monitors its own performance and self-regulates the fluid flow timing and amplitude to maintain optimal isolation effectiveness across varying frequencies, eliminating the need for external manual adjustment and reducing overall power requirements through intelligent control
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides efficient, lightweight, and low-power vibration isolation, minimizing vibration transmission between rotor systems and fuselages, effective over a range of frequencies and reducing the weight and power requirements compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
The piston assembly includes a first piston and a second piston configured to displace the fluid in opposite directions through the fluid flow pathway
Implementation Method 2
The fluid flow augmentation system includes an eccentric member positioned between the first piston and the second piston. The fluid flow augmentation system is configured to control a flow of the fluid to the vibration isolator through the fluid flow pathway by controlling a displacement of the first piston and the second piston through at least a partial rotation of the eccentric member
Implementation Method 3
A vibration isolation system is used in rotorcrafts such as helicopters and tiltrotor aircrafts to reduce or suppress vibration transmission between two bodies of a rotorcraft, for example, between the rotor system and the fuselage
Data Source
AI summary
A vibration isolation system includes a vibration isolator configured to flow a fluid. A fluid pumping system is connected to the vibration isolator. The fluid pumping system includes a fluid flow pathway configured to flow the fluid to the vibration isolator. The fluid pumping system includes a piston assembly positioned in the fluid flow pathway. The piston assembly includes a first piston and a second piston configured to displace the fluid in opposite directions through the fluid flow pathway. The vibration isolation system includes a fluid flow augmentation system, which includes an eccentric member positioned between the first piston and the second piston. The fluid flow augmentation system is configured to control a flow of the fluid to the vibration isolator through the fluid flow pathway by controlling a displacement of the first piston and the second piston through at least a partial rotation of the eccentric member.