A DYNAMIC FILM SUSPENSION FOR INERTIAL ACCELEROMETERS.

This report covers the third phase of a program utilizing a squeeze film journal bearing as the means of supporting the proof mass of a vibrating string accelerometer VSA. The program covered the design, build, and test phases of a VSA utilizing a piezoelectric tensioner, squeeze film bearing, and fluid damping of the proof mass. Included in this report are assembly drawings, electrical circuit schematics, and test data on the complete VSA system. The VSA, virtually a force-to-frequency sensor, actually measures velocity the time integral of acceleration by counting the difference of cycles in the respective vibration frequencies of the two wires. Since the output of this device is digital, with each pulse representing an incremental velocity change along the sensitive axis, it is highly desired for inertial operations. The purpose of this phase of the study program was to design, build, and test a VSA to verify feasibility. Incorporated in the VSA were to be a squeeze film bearing, wire tensioner, and proof mass damping. The program was conceptually successful in verifying that the squeeze film bearing, wire tensioner, and proof mass damping would operate harmoniously together. Author