Piezoelectric Sensor Damping for Vibration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor systems face challenges in line-of-sight stabilization due to vibrations from environmental and operational sources, which affect image quality and data captured.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly featuring a frame with inwardly extending supports and piezoelectric material layers connected through spacers to dampen vibrations, utilizing macro-fiber composite (MFC) piezoelectric material for active or proactive control of damping forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional vibration damping methods are used in sensor systems, then vibration reduction can be achieved, but the system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical vibration damping systems with piezoelectric material layers that use electro-mechanical coupling to damp vibrations. The piezoelectric materials convert mechanical vibration energy into electrical energy, providing vibration damping without the weight penalty of mechanical dampers, springs, or shock absorbers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses piezoelectric composite materials that combine piezoelectric ceramics or polymers with structural materials to create lightweight vibration-damping components. These composite materials provide both structural support and vibration damping functionality in a single integrated layer, reducing overall system weight compared to separate mechanical damping components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If piezoelectric material layers are added to damp vibrations, then vibration damping capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vibration damping function with the structural components of the sensor assembly by integrating piezoelectric material layers directly onto the frame, supports, and other structural elements. This integration eliminates the need for separate damping components and reduces device complexity while maintaining effective vibration damping.
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric material layers serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide vibration damping, can sense vibration levels, and can be electrically controlled to adjust damping characteristics. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby reducing overall device 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 solution effectively reduces vibrations and weight, enhancing image and data quality by applying controlled damping forces, improving line-of-sight stabilization and overall performance.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of piezoelectric material layers are operatively connected to the endplates and supports of the frame through respective spacers. Each piezoelectric material layer is mounted to a side of the respective spacer opposite of the frame to damp vibrations of the suspended mass.
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor assembly includes a frame 102 defining a sensor axis having opposing endplates 110 with axially extending supports 108, wherein the opposing endplates are connected by a pair of axially extending side beams 112. A suspended mass 104 is within an interior of the frame suspended from the supports of the frame. A plurality of spacers 106 are operatively connected to the endplates and supports of the frame. A plurality of piezoelectric material layers 114 are operatively connected to sides of respective spacers opposite the frame to damp vibrations.