Real world testing bench - trying to check my calculations

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the calculations of instantaneous force exerted by a pendulum hammer in a product testing scenario. The user, leahcim, fabricated a repeating pendulum hammer with a weight of 10 pounds, dropped from a height of 13.5 inches, and estimated the force at impact to be between 360 to 420 pounds-force. The conversation highlights the importance of considering deceleration and the elasticity of the target material for accurate force calculations. Expert input suggests that understanding these factors is crucial for validating the calculated force range.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics principles, specifically force and motion.
  • Familiarity with pendulum mechanics and impact force calculations.
  • Knowledge of material properties, including elasticity.
  • Experience with product testing methodologies.
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  • Research the principles of impact force calculations in pendulum systems.
  • Learn about material elasticity and its effect on impact forces.
  • Explore advanced physics concepts related to deceleration and force measurement.
  • Investigate product testing standards and methodologies for mechanical testing.
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Engineers, product testers, and physics enthusiasts interested in mechanical testing and force calculations will benefit from this discussion.

leahcim
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I know this seems like a homework question but the last time I was in a physics class was <ahem> 1982.

For product testing reasons, I have fabricated a (rough, very rough--no laughing at the fabrication/welding) 'repeating pendulum hammer'. Please see "test rig diagram.jpg"

Distance from A to B is 13.5"
Weight of (C) Hammer (pendulum) is 10 pounds

C is raised 90 degrees and then dropped to strike B (30/minute - fyi)

I am assuming away all frictions, incorrect/incomplete angles and time issues.

I believe/calculated the instantaneous force (in pounds/force) at B, exerted by the hammer (C) to be in the range of 360 to 420.

This Rube Goldberg was conceived on a bar napkin talking with a ME. Do the forces fall in that range?

TIA,
leahcim
 

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How did you get this force range?

The important thing here is the deceleration of the 'hammer'. This is in general tough to calculate...you might get close if you can find the elasticity of the target (assuming the 'hammer' is a hard metal).
 
What exactly are you trying to achieve with your test? I do this stuff for a living, so I am always interested.
 

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