This paper presents a new proof mass actuator for the implementation of decentralised velocity feedback control loops to reduce the flexural vibration of a thin plate structure at low audio frequencies. Classical proof mass actuators are formed by coil–magnet linear motors. These actuators can generate constant force at frequencies above the fundamental resonance frequency of the spring–magnet system, which can be used to efficiently implement point velocity feedback control loops. However, the dynamics of the spring–magnet system limits the stability and control performance of the loops when the actuators are exposed to shocks This paper introduces the proof mass actuator with an additional flywheel element that improves the stability of the velocity feedback loop both by increasing the feedback gain margin and by reducing the actuator static displacement. This paper is focused on the stability and control performance of multiple feedback loops. Secondly, the principal scaling laws that characterise the actuator and thus the feedback loops.
