This project is concerned with intelligent structures, structures with highly distributed actuators, sensors, and processing networks. The goal of this type of instrumentation is to enhance noise , vibration and motion control of the structure. This research focuses on piezoelectric films and shape memory alloys for use as actuator and/or sensor elements of an intelligent structure. Examples of some of the potential application areas of intelligent structures include active noise and vibration control in large space structures, turboprop aircraft, transportation vehicles, artificial heart valves, and lightweight robotic manipulators. This project also addresses research in the development of new and better control algorithms using digital signal filtering techniques. Specifically, effort is focused on the development of a multi input/multi output active control systems with adaptive capabilities to enable the controller to track changes in the motion, vibration, or acoustic response of a structure and instantaneously apply the appropriate compensation.
