Viscoelastic Membrane Damper for Spacecraft Launch and Micro-Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing damping systems for spacecraft struggle to combine low rigidity for filtering micro-vibrations with high rigidity for supporting dynamic launch loads while being compact, simple to implement, and cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A damping system with a damper design featuring viscoelastic membranes that change curvature in response to different vibration types, providing an idle state for micro-vibrations and a second operating state for significant vibrations, using an outer and inner support structure with aligned fibers and slots to balance stiffness across axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If low frequency suspension is used to filter micro-vibrations, then vibration filtering capability is improved, but displacement during launch becomes excessive and incompatible with mechanical strength
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane structure transitions from a rigid configuration during launch to a flexible, curved configuration during operation. The membranes are pre-formed with a curvature that allows them to flex and absorb micro-vibrations while maintaining structural integrity during high-g launch conditions. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between needing flexibility for vibration filtering and rigidity for launch strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its mechanical parameters based on operational conditions. During launch, the membranes remain in a taut, high-stiffness state that can withstand high g-forces. During satellite operation, the membranes adopt a curved, flexible configuration that optimizes vibration damping performance. This parameter change allows the same structure to satisfy both contradictory requirements.
2Strength
If elastic stops are used in parallel to maintain launch levels, then mechanical strength during launch is improved, but shocks are generated on the equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible membranes made of thin films that can flex continuously to absorb vibrations. Unlike rigid elastic stops that create discrete shocks, these membranes provide continuous, smooth vibration isolation. The thin film structure allows for gradual deformation that dampens vibrations without generating harmful shock impulses to the equipment.
3Strength
If stacking systems are used to block the suspended system at launch, then mechanical strength during launch is improved, but device complexity and volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vibration isolation function and the launch strength function into a single integrated membrane structure. Instead of using separate stacking systems or auxiliary devices, the membranes themselves provide both the necessary structural strength for launch and the vibration damping capability for operation. This merging eliminates the need for complex auxiliary blocking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support during launch, acts as a vibration isolator during operation, and maintains mechanical strength throughout the entire mission lifecycle. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function, reducing overall system complexity.
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 effectively dampens micro-vibrations while resisting high-level vibrations, maintaining structural integrity and compactness, making it suitable for spacecraft applications.
Implementation Method 1
Each membrane is formed of a viscoelastic material including fibers aligned substantially in a same direction
Data Source
AI summary
A damper for an object is placed in a medium subjected to vibrations. The damper has an idle state in the absence of vibrations, a first operating state in case of vibrations of a first type, and a second operating state in case of vibrations of a second type. The level of each vibration of the first type is less than the level of each vibration of the second type. The damper includes an outer support structure, an inner support structure, and at least one pair of membranes formed of a first membrane and a second membrane. Each membrane is formed of a viscoelastic material including fibers aligned substantially in a same direction.