Active Vibration Control With Repositionable Electromagnetic Mass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vibration control systems for heavy machinery are complex, oversized, and lack versatility in controlling vibrations of varying frequencies and magnitudes, requiring extensive calibration and being limited to single modes of vibration.
Innovation Solution
An active vibration control system comprising an electromagnetic actuator and a control element, allowing for multiple modes of vibration through relative movement, enabling the system to control vibrations across different frequencies and magnitudes with a single actuator, and featuring a resilient attachment via compliant material layers for tuning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If commercially available vibration control systems are used, then vibration damping is provided, but the systems are complex and oversized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple vibration control functions into a single integrated system. The electromagnetic actuator serves both as the vibration source and the control actuator, while the proof mass performs both sensing and actuation functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate sensors, multiple actuators, and complex calibration systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining effective vibration damping.
2Reliability
If commercially available vibration control systems are used, then vibration control is provided, but the systems lack versatility for varying frequencies and magnitudes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the proof mass can be repositioned along the axis of the electromagnetic actuator. This dynamic reconfiguration capability allows the system to adjust its resonant frequency and adapt to different vibration modes. By changing the position of the proof mass, the system can effectively control vibrations across a range of frequencies and magnitudes, providing the needed versatility without requiring multiple fixed-frequency systems.
3Reliability
If commercially available vibration control systems are used, then single mode vibration control is achieved, but the systems require extensive calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-calibrating system where the proof mass automatically detects and adapts to the vibration characteristics of the base structure. The system uses the vibration feedback from the base structure to automatically adjust the actuator parameters and proof mass position, eliminating the need for manual calibration. This self-service capability significantly reduces calibration time and allows the system to be quickly deployed in different applications without extensive setup procedures.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators are used to achieve multiple modes of vibration, then vibration control across frequencies is improved, but the system becomes more complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the single electromagnetic actuator and proof mass assembly multi-functional by enabling the proof mass to be repositioned to different locations along the actuator axis. This single system can generate and control multiple vibration modes and frequencies by simply changing the proof mass position, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated actuators. The universal design allows one compact system to perform the work of what would traditionally require multiple separate actuators, reducing both complexity and size.
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 a compact, reliable, and cost-effective solution for controlling vibrations across multiple frequencies and magnitudes, enhancing tuning capabilities and applicability to various machinery setups.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic actuator operable to apply a force on a base structure
Implementation Method 2
featuring a resilient attachment via compliant material layers for tuning
Data Source
AI summary
According to the present invention there is provided an active vibration control system comprising: an electromagnetic actuator; a magnetic element; and a solenoid, the electromagnetic actuator being operable to apply a force on a base structure to which the active vibration control system is attachable such that vibrations of the base structure are actively controllable by the application of said force, wherein the electromagnetic actuator is operable to cause movement of the magnetic element through the solenoid and the solenoid is operable to apply a force on the magnetic element.