David • Lord Corp.: In most passive systems, the major challenges come from a tradeoff of isolation versus allowable motion. To gain higher levels of isolation, softer suspensions are required, but with softer systems come increased motions. Most applications have a limited package and space envelope.

Also, the consideration that the suspension system is merely moving the vibration to a frequency of less concern can be an issue. Damping may be required to minimize motion at the natural frequency of the system, but the introduction of damping also causes an increase in the transmitted vibration.

Semi-active systems allow the benefits of damping at the system s natural frequency, while also maintaining isolation comparable to an undamped system. This is accomplished through the use of a controllable damping device, like those used in seat dampers, for example. In this case, a controllable damper using magneto-rheological fluid is driven via an electronic controller. Sensors are used to determine the level of damping when it's required.

DESCRIBE A SCENARIO OF HOW DESIGNERS WILL SOMEDAY EMPLOY VIBRATION CONTROL TECHNOLOGY BEYOND WHAT ’S POSSIBLE TODAY AND SOME OF THE ASSOCIATED BENEFITS.

Jeff • Enidine: As vibration is minimized, system accuracy and repeatability will increase. Positioning a part accurately without dwelling to let the part settle will increase throughput. One day, active materials will allow the performance of vibration control elements to be adjusted automatically within a system. Designers will simply employ a black box vibration control mechanism at critical system interfaces. These black box systems will identify incoming vibrations and automatically adjust their performance to control the vibrations. These systems will also be linked to provide motion control on a system level or factory level basis.

David • Lord Corp.: As technology advances due to new materials, smaller sensors, efficient power sources, and improved actuators all at lower cost vibration control systems will become commonplace in all aspects of motion and vibration control. Practical ways of converting energy dissipation into usable energy rather than heat, or designing a prosthetic joint to rival a biological joint, will be possible.

Technology driven from the benefits of current vibration control will enable this to happen.

For more information on vibration control, visit motionsystemdesign.com's Knowledge FAQtory and look for links that will connect you to content related to minimizing vibration.