Vibration-X proposes to develop an active vibration (and noise) control system to reduce the interior noise in army vehicles. The solution will contain the following novelties: distributed actuator topology for both vibration and acoustic control, energy harvesting techniques to power the sensors used in the system, and integration schemes of actuators and sensors to the structure of the vehicle. Vibration-X has teamed up with Delphi Automotive and Florida Institute of Technology for this effort. Delphi will provide the functional requirements for the system, while Florida Institute of Technology will provide support in the sensor development and in the energy harvesting development. In Phase I of the program, the Vibration-X team will develop a proof of concept prototype based on a specified interior trim panel of an Army vehicle. The system will be comprised of piezoceramic actuators, sensors, control electronics, piezoelectric energy harvesting and energy management system. A 20-25dB vibration reduction is expected at the frequencies of interest, and an overall in-cabin noise reduction in the order of 6-8dB can be achieved. Phase II of the program will take the concept developed in Phase I and extend it to an entire vehicle. A multiplicity of panels will be evaluated, and a global in-cabin noise reduction will be targeted. The system will be prototyped and tested in typical operating conditions. Cost, performance and reliability of the system will be identified by the end of Phase II in preparation for product development.
Benefits: Interior noise control is a very important issue in all automotive applications. Reducing the noise and vibration in an Army vehicle will lead to reduced soldier fatigue, improved operating conditions, and increased equipment life.
Keywords: Vibration control, noise control, active, piezoelectric materials, energy harvesting, wireless sensing.
