NASA Human Lander Challenge: Noise Suppression and Control

The objective of this project is to design a solution to mitigate noise from the Environmental Control and Life Support System, which hinders astronaut communication and long term habitation in space.

The current solution is Modular Acoustic Suppression System (MASS) that will be able to absorb and reduce specific frequencies within a targeted range using a membrane absorber-like system. Membrane absorbers function by using a flexible membrane, acting as a spring at ambient pressure, that effectively reduces sound by achieving resonance with incoming sound waves, usually at low frequencies. Electrical actuators will adjust the panel to the optimal geometry based on the target frequency received by a sound sensor module.

At the current point in time, I have:

  • Used vibrations equations and MATLAB simulations to determine an optimal membrane material for the target range

  • Developed a functional CAD model

  • Used FEA to iteratively select a mounting plate that falls below stress limits and reduces system weight

  • Designed a linear actuator/rail system that minimizes required torque for moving an adjustable plate

  • Authored and presented a system-level design justification in PDR and CDR to our sponsor