MEMS-based control of structural dynamic instability

This paper describes the design, analysis and characterization of a prototy pe active column that applies distributed MEMS technology to the active sta bilization of a buckling compressive member. The axial load bearing capacit y of structural members can be increased by actively controlling the dynami c instability of buckling. Effective active stabilization is dependent on t hree primary factors: sensor precision, actuator authority, and control sys tem bandwidth. A networked array of MEMS sensors, filamentary PZT actuators , and recently developed optimal control strategies are combined to demonst rate active control of an inherently unstable column. The active system, de signed and simulated using finite element and optimization methods, stabili zes an experimental column for compressive axial loads up to 2.9 times the critical buckling load. Additionally, the system is stable for all loads in the range from tension to this maximum compressive axial load.