Aerodynamic and vibration damping skin for cylindrical structures

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Unit cell of locally-resonant lattice tuned to damp noise source.

Invention Summary:

During rocket launches and stage separations, intense vibrations and shock waves can damage sensitive payload electronics. Traditional isolation systems are often heavy and increase fuel consumption, making lightweight vibration-damping solutions essential.

Rutgers innovators, in collaboration with Northrop Grumman Space Systems, have developed a novel lightweight skin technology that integrates resonating lattice designs into spacecraft structures. These structures capture and redistribute shock energy, extending the duration over which the wave is experienced and minimizing destructive impact. Two designs were created: one featuring cantilevers on a structural support, and another combining this with an aerodynamic skin for enhanced damping performance.

Market Applications:

• Aerospace and defense industries for spacecraft, satellites, and launch vehicles.
• High-precision systems requiring vibration isolation (e.g., sensors, optics, instruments).
• Potential adaptation for automotive, aviation, and industrial vibration control systems

Advantages:

• Lightweight structures eliminate the need for heavy isolation systems.
• Efficient vibration and shock dissipation improve payload reliability.
• Integrates directly onto spacecraft surfaces without major design changes.
• Reduces fuel consumption and overall launch costs.

Intellectual Property & Development Status: Provisional application filed. Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships, contact:  marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu