Inertia-compensated vibration test system for NVH validation
This technology is a precision testing machine that shakes or vibrates objects like cars to simulate road conditions or impacts. It combines two actuator types — a fast, precise electromagnetic motor and a pneumatic (air-powered) cylinder — where the pneumatic side handles the heavy static weight of the vehicle and the electromagnetic side delivers accurate dynamic motion. A key innovation is a software compensation method that measures acceleration during the test, filters it through a model of the machine's own physics, and corrects the force readings in real time to eliminate measurement errors caused by the machine's own moving parts. The result is significantly more accurate force data during vibration and shock testing.
What you could build
A high-fidelity automotive and component vibration test system sold to vehicle OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and independent test labs that need accurate dynamic load data for NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) validation, crashworthiness testing, or durability certification.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based automotive suppliers, defense contractors testing vehicle subsystems (e.g., NSWC Dahlgren, Army TARDEC-adjacent facilities), or university test labs supporting DOT or DOD vehicle programs would be plausible customers or licensees.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Stephen C. Southward, Chandler Reubush, Bryan Pittman, Kurt Roehrig, Doug Gerard
- Granted
- May 9, 2017
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 9645035
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.