ModVI: Design Modification of a Passive Vibration Isolator for Surveying Stability of an Underground Imaging Towed Trailer System

The fundamental concept of towed underground imaging is the determination of the electrical resistivity of the ground to assess the composition and utilities present underneath. However, the challenge of using this technology is the establishment of the system's isolation from vibrations caused by antenna oscillation on uneven terrain. With that, this study modified a novel design of a passive-type isolator from a previous study and named it as the ModVI. This aims to attain a quasi-zero stiffness condition to shield the system from extremely low-frequency vibrations affecting data gathering. It is necessary that the passive or structural design of the employed vibration isolator be tailored for its identified function. Motion analysis simulation was used to prove the modification of the design in terms of its stability mechanism and isolation. An arch shape linkage and variation in spring position were employed as performed modifications and were compared with the straight linkage design of the reference. Based on the results, the arch-shaped link has the best performance in terms of stress, displacement, and factor of safety. Thus, the maximum top displacement of ModVI is 0.142 mm only compared to 0.27 mm of the reference design conveying more effective and efficient vibration isolation.