Actuator design and experimental validation for active gearbox vibration control

Abstract

A straightforward approach that combines a linear piezoelectric stack actuator model andthe dynamics of the host system is proposed for predicting the required control voltageand power levels of an actuator targeted for active gearbox vibration controlapplications. Even though piezoelectric actuators are widely applied, their electricalrequirements for particular active control systems are seldom addressed directly. Theproposed theory is validated by applying the experimental results obtained from aclosed-loop, power recirculating gearbox set-up equipped with an active shaft transversevibration control system. The proposed methodology provides a formal frameworkfor designing actuators and amplifiers without the usual costly trial and errorprocess.