Abstract: The present invention features a vibration attenuation assembly designed for the protection of single axis instruments such as accelerometers. The assembly includes an inner cylinder housing one or more single axis accelerometers co-aligned with a principle axis of the cylinder. The inner cylinder is suspended by three or more equally spaced springs at each end. The springs also function as electrical conductors for transmitting power and signals to the accelerometer. The inner cylinder is longitudinally shiftable within the outer cylinder and a main fluid cavity exists between the exterior surface of the inner cylinder and the inner surface of the outer cylinder. A rigid outer cap is provided at both ends of the outer cylinder and a rigid inner cap is provided at both ends of the inner cylinder.

Abstract: A controlled acceleration platform which provides a horizontally quiet platform capable of accurate acceleration and angular control. An object at or near the center of percussion of the pendulum assembly experiences reduced seismic and cultural ground vibration, and experiences negligible hysteresis and stiction for minute adjustment in inclination. By rigidly attaching the device to a single pivot or flexure so as to isolate the accelerometer from seismic or cultural vibration, the small tilt associated with pendulus motion at the proper radius from the flexure completely cancels the inertial term. The suspended item is also isolated from small error producing effects such as earth tide, local ground swell from solar heating, and far field gravity changes as produced by the sun and the moon. The lateral acceleration sensed by the suspended item may be adjusted by controlling tilt of the platform. This can be done by adding weight at a distance from the center line.

Abstract: The present invention features a vibration attenuation assembly designed for the protection of single axis instruments such as accelerometers. The assembly includes an inner cylinder housing one or more single axis accelerometers co-aligned with a principle axis of the cylinder. The inner cylinder is suspended by three or more equally spaced springs at each end. In one embodiment, damping fluid is maintained between the inner cylindrical surface of the housing and the suspended cylinder to provide damping and a thermal path. The springs also function as electrical conductors for transmitting power and signals to the accelerometer. Damping fluid retention between the inner and outer cylinder can be accomplished by use of a diaphragm or bellows as a physical barrier. Alternatively, retention of the damping fluid can be accomplished without a physical barrier by use of fluid adhesion which has particular applicability in low gravity environments such as space.