Two-Stage Vibration Isolator for Satellite Payloads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vibration isolation systems for satellite payloads are typically tuned to optimize for either small- or large-amplitude vibrations, making it difficult to effectively isolate both types, leading to unmitigated vibrations during launch and additional structural requirements that are unnecessary once in orbit.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage passive vibration isolator system that combines a damping assembly with a first and second bellows, a piston, and viscoelastic mounts to provide both damping and linear-elastic vibration isolation for low- and high-amplitude vibrations, using a motion limiter to transmit force to a viscoelastic mount for high-amplitude vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the vibration isolation system is tuned to isolate small-amplitude on-orbit vibrations, then small-amplitude vibration isolation is improved, but large-amplitude vibration isolation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a piston that can move between two positions (first position engaging the motion limiter, second position disengaged) to dynamically change the isolation characteristics. This allows the system to adapt between two vibration isolation modes: one optimized for small-amplitude vibrations and another for large-amplitude vibrations, resolving the contradiction between optimizing for specific amplitude ranges and adapting to multiple ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameters of the isolation mechanism by switching between two configurations. When the piston engages the motion limiter, the system parameters are optimized for large-amplitude vibrations; when disengaged, parameters are optimized for small-amplitude vibrations. This parameter switching enables the system to effectively isolate both vibration types without requiring separate systems.
2Strength
If the vibration isolation system is tuned to isolate large-amplitude vibrations, then large-amplitude vibration isolation is improved, but small-amplitude vibration isolation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic positioning of the piston allows the system to switch between a rigid configuration (when engaged with motion limiter for large-amplitude resistance) and a compliant configuration (when disengaged for small-amplitude isolation). This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between needing strong vibration resistance and maintaining effective isolation across different amplitude ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration isolation function is segmented into two distinct modes handled by different mechanical configurations. The motion limiter and piston create separate isolation pathways: one for large-amplitude vibrations with the limiter engaged, and another for small-amplitude vibrations with the limiter disengaged. This segmentation allows each mode to be optimized independently while being controlled by a single system.
3Device complexity
If a single passive isolation system is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different vibration amplitudes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By incorporating a movable piston that can switch between two positions within the single isolation system, the device gains dynamic adaptability without requiring multiple separate systems. The piston's movement between engaging and disengaging the motion limiter allows one device to perform the function of what would traditionally require multiple specialized isolation systems, thus maintaining simplicity while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single passive isolation system is designed with multi-functionality through the piston-motion limiter mechanism. It can universally handle both small-amplitude and large-amplitude vibrations by switching configurations, eliminating the need for separate isolation systems for different vibration types. This universal design reduces overall device complexity while expanding the operational range.
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 reduces both small- and large-amplitude vibrations with a single passive device, providing improved performance and reducing the need for additional structural reinforcement, thus optimizing payload performance across different vibration frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
a first bellows disposed within the housing passage, the first bellows spaced apart from the inner surface to define a first chamber having a first volume, a second bellows disposed within the housing passage, the second bellows spaced apart from the housing inner surface to define a second chamber having a second volume
Implementation Method 2
a first resilient member coupled in series with the damping assembly, and a second resilient member coupled in parallel with the series combination of the damping assembly and the first resilient member
Implementation Method 3
a viscoelastic mount coupled to the support member, and a motion limiter coupled to the support member such that the passive mechanical system transmits a force to the support member when the passive mechanical undergoes longitudinal displacement greater than a predetermined displacement
Data Source
AI summary
A vibration isolating system is disclosed. The vibration isolating system comprises a passive mechanical system comprising a damping assembly, a first resilient member coupled in series with the damping assembly, and a second resilient member coupled in parallel with the series combination of the damping assembly and the first resilient member. The vibration isolating system further comprises a support member coupled in series with the passive mechanical system, a viscoelastic mount coupled to the support member, and a motion limiter coupled to the support member such that the passive mechanical system transmits a force to the support member when the passive mechanical undergoes longitudinal displacement greater than a predetermined displacement.