Active isolation using a Kalman estimator-based controller

A novel feed-forward active vibration/shock isolation scheme that is based on the use of a Kalman estimator (KE) has been developed. It does not requi re real-time adaptation and yet maintains its effectiveness when the attrib utes (such as the frequencies) of the disturbance change. The proposed cont roller is always second order, regardless of the complexity of the structur e under control. In addition to feeding forward the measured base accelerat ion, the acceleration at the location of interest on the structure is measu red and fed back through the KE gain. Using numerical and experimental data , the KE-based controller is demonstrated to be highly effective in reducin g the transmission of the base excitation to the structure.