Analytical and Experimental Studies of a Mechanical Pulse Generator

A simple, low-cost mechanical pulse generator has numerous applications in laboratory investigations and field tests of structures. Applications may include shock tests, transient load simulations, and impedance measurements. By drawing a metal bar or mandrel having a variable cross-sectional area through a cutting tool (or vice versa) with suitable motive power, a waveform directly related to the configuration of the profile of the bar may be developed. The force time history generated would be dependent in part upon the velocity of the cutting tool. Reaction at the attachment points of the device transmits a force output to the driven load or structure. Initial experiments with a laboratory device show considerable promise by generating forces and waveforms comparable to predictions.