Piezoelectric Active Vibration Control of Space Truss Structure

A novel active vibration control method utilizing embedded piezoelectric actuators is proposed for micro-vibration of space truss structure. The embedded piezoelectric actuators are incorporated at the intersection of the truss structure and base. When the truss structure experiences vibration from external excitation or substrate disturbance, acceleration sensors monitor the response at the top of the truss structure. In order to generate an additional vibration with the identical frequency of the external excitation but in the opposite direction, and with equal amplitude, the embedded piezoelectric actuators are applied with a specific electrical signal. Through the synthesis of vibrations, the amplitude of the structure is reduced to achieve active vibration control. Firstly, the effect of various layout schemes of piezoelectric ceramics on the actuator performance is analyzed using the finite element method. Secondly, a prototype of the embedded piezoelectric actuator is manufactured and the truss structure is constructed. Finally, the complete measurement system is constructed and the experiment is conducted to investigate the effect of vibration suppression. The results indicate that the embedded piezoelectric actuators hold an effective vibration reduction in the active control system of the space truss structure. Especially for vibration in the high-frequency range and during resonance, the vibration suppression effect on vibration is more noticeable, reaching a maximum of -25 dB. Meanwhile, the method possesses a straightforward structure, reduced cost, lower installation and maintenance complexity. These factors provide valuable references for implementing piezoelectric active control design within a large-flexible structure in space.