Actuator design and experimental validation for active gearbox vibration control

A straightforward approach that combines a linear piezoelectric stack actuator model and the dynamics of the host system is proposed for predicting the required control voltage and power levels of an actuator targeted for active gearbox vibration control applications. Even though piezoelectric actuators are widely applied, their electrical requirements for particular active control systems are seldom addressed directly. The proposed theory is validated by applying the experimental results obtained from a closed-loop, power recirculating gearbox set-up equipped with an active shaft transverse vibration control system. The proposed methodology provides a formal framework for designing actuators and amplifiers without the usual costly trial and error process.