Vibration Exciters with Interchangeable Heads

Abstract

A new concept in electromagnetic vibration exciter design, in which the entire dynamic portion of the vibration exciter can be quickly changed, provides optimization of performance characteristics for specific applications. Since a head with the specific performance characteristics needed for the job can be selected, it is no longer necessary to use a compromise design. The performance characteristics discussed include those applicable to 200g testing, the testing of large objects where high side load capability and a rigid table are essential, the measurement of structural modes, impedances, and transfer functions, and confirmation calibration of accelerometers and other transducers. The design objectives and solutions are presented for the stiff highly damped suspension systems that make interchangeable heads possible. The moving element skeletons of five different heads are described in detail, showing how the different performance criteria for various applications are achieved. Included in the program are three different vibration exciter sizes with four or five heads for each.