Date of Award

3-10-2010

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering

Department

Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

First Advisor

Eric D. Swenson, PhD

Abstract

A novel compact vibration isolation system was designed, built, and tested for the Space Chromotomography Experiment (CTEx) being built by Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) researchers. CTEx is a multifunctional experimental imaging chromotomographic spectrometer designed for flight on the International Space Station (ISS) and is sensitive to jitter caused by vibrations both through the support structure as well as those produced on the optical platform by rotating optical components. CTEx demands a compact and lightweight means of vibration isolation and suppression from the ISS structure. Vibration tests conducted on an initial isolator design resulted in changes in the chosen spring and damping material properties but confirmed finite element (FE) model results and showed that the spring geometry meets preliminary design goals. The FE model served as a key tool in evaluating material and spring designs and development of the final drawing sets for fabrication. Research efforts led to a final design which was tested in the final flight configuration. This final configuration proved the potential for a compact means of vibration isolation for space applications.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GA-ENY-10-M07

DTIC Accession Number

ADA517316

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