Airborne Suspension/Vibration Isolation System.
Abstract
A hybrid passive-active vibration isolation system for airborne optical systems is described. Designed for the requirements of the Air Force Airborne Laser program, it uses an advanced semipassive system of pneumatic mounts to support the payload weight with very low stiffness and hysteresis. Horizontal isolation is accommodated by passive means using all-metal flexures. High-force voice coil actuators act on the payload in all six degrees of freedom with vertical actuators integrated into the pneumatic counts. The passive system provides isolation break frequencies of 0.6-1.25 Hz with vertical isolation of -40 dB at frequencies as low as 4.0 Hz. A real-time control processor allows the active subsystem to provide a number of performance enhancements. It can reduce static sag and sway during aircraft maneuvering, can damp the passive system, and can provide inertial stabilization of the entire optical platform during level flight. Design and construction of a proof-of-concept demonstration system are described along with methods and results for system-level and component-level tests.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADB220493
Entities
People
- David A. Kienholz