A feasibility study of active vibration isolation using thunder actuators

The 'thin layer composite unimorph piezoelectric driver and sensor' (THUNDER) piezoelectric actuator is a newly developed active control device that possesses many advantages over other conventional piezoelectric actuators. Particularly, its capacity for generating high displacement and its inherent flexibility make it an ideal candidate in applications for active vibration isolation. In this paper, we focus on the simulation, design and experimental tests of a hybrid isolation system by taking advantage of both the passive and active effects provided by THUNDER actuators. Different aspects concerning its practical use are first investigated. Then its dynamic properties are modelled using a mechatronic approach. From there a dynamic model is established considering the parameter evolution due to the mass loading. Finally a simple prototype is designed using three THUNDER actuators. Both simulation and experimental tests show the potential of THUNDER actuators in active vibration control applications.