A Self-Sensing and Self-Actuating Active Rotor With an Algorithmic Direct Search Controller

An active rotor topology for vibration control in rotating machinery is proposed. Microelectromechanical system accelerometers and miniature mass-balancer actuators are placed within a hollow rotor to produce a self-sensing self-actuating design. When compared with conventional stator-mounted active systems, this topology enables an increased number of sensors and actuators, with greater freedom to select their location along the rotor. The construction and evaluation of a prototype is reported. An algorithmic direct search controller is adopted to provide non a priori vibration control. The searching algorithm is specified to solve a discrete problem, accounting for the limits in resolution of sensors and actuators. In addition, features have been introduced to prevent premature convergence at saddle points. The controller has been applied both in simulation and experimentally, achieving a substantial reduction in rotor vibration.