Semi-Active Vibration Isolation Using Fluidic Flexible Matrix Composite Mounts

Variable modulus fluidic flexible matrix composites (F²MC) are investigated for vibration isolation mounts. The fluidic flexible matrix composites are based upon flexible matrix composite tubes containing a high bulk modulus internal fluid. By tailoring the fibers (orientation, number of layers, material, etc.) and the choice of the matrix material, the F²MC tube can obtain significant changes in stiffness by simply opening or closing an inlet valve to the tubes. The objective in this research is to investigate the F²MC variable modulus system for semi-active vibration isolation. A nonlinear analytical model of an isolation mount based on the F²MC tube with a proportional valve is developed. Analysis results indicate that the F²MC based isolation mount is effective for reducing the transmission from a disturbance source to a mass. Simulation studies demonstrate that the resonant frequencies and the damping can be controlled through simple valve control, which can be effective for vibration isolation.