Host
Initial submission
During the launch and flight of a rocket, vibrations must be reduced to such an extent that they do not damage the payload and structure. Microvibrations interfere with the precision of optical equipment in satellites.
In the Silent Running project, MT Aerospace, OHB-System AG and Fraunhofer LBF pursued the goal of integrating innovative vibration-reducing vibroacoustic metamaterials into the new generations of satellite components and launcher structures in order to resolve the conflicting objectives of lightweight construction and vibration behaviour during the launch and microvibrations
in orbit. Metamaterials combine the advantages of active and passive vibration mitigation and can be used in many industries.
Development
INNOspace Masters and our Silent Running project enabled us to build three space demonstrators with our project partners MT Aerospace and OHB-System AG. In the process, we made sure to take into account the stresses at launch and use space-qualified
materials. We were able to demonstrate that the use of vibroacoustic metamaterials in space is feasible and that the technology offers new opportunities for lightweight construction and vibration reduction.
Appraisal
The development of the Silent Running project is above all an impressive example of the development of a new field of technology:
vibroacoustic metamaterials. In addition to weight reduction due to their light weight, the materials can also be made from
sustainable raw materials. The exploration of applications in other industries underscores the technology‘s potential.
