Vibration suppression of a satellite using an adaptive composite thruster platform

摘要

Adaptive or intelligent structures which have the capability for sensing and responding to their environment promise a novel approach to satisfying the stringent performance requirements of future space missions. This research focuses on a finite element analysis active vibration suppression of an intelligent composite platform that is designed for thrust vector control of a satellite thruster and has simultaneous precision positioning and vibration suppression capabilities. This smart platform connects the thruster to the structure of the satellite and has three active struts and one active central support with one piezoelectric stack in each. A finite element harmonic analysis was employed to develop a vibration suppression scheme, which was then used to study the vibration control of the satellite structure using the vibration suppression capabilities of the intelligent platform mounted on the satellite. The applicability of the model is first demonstrated on a single strut using a one-dimensional approach. This approach is then extended to the full intelligent composite platform employing a three-dimensional approach. In this approach, the responses of the structure to a unit external force as well as unit internal piezoelectric control voltages are first determined, individually. The responses are then assembled in a system of equation as a coupled system and then solved simultaneously to determine the control voltages and their respective phases for the system actuators for a given external disturbance. This approach is an effective technique for the design of smart structures with complex geometry to study their active vibration suppression capabilities and effectiveness.