Vibrations

Summary:

In this lab you will be using a model test bed to perform experiments illustrating the behavior
of some simple vibrating systems. This experiment will provide you with an understanding of some of
the basic principles and equations necessary to understand dynamic systems and data collection.
You will also explore the effects of sampling rate on dynamic data acquisition.
(Note: Portions of the following are taken directly from the manuals provided with the ECP
experimental systems you will be using in this laboratory.)


Before coming to the lab:

Before coming to the lab be sure to read this handout thoroughly and complete the
questions on the pre-lab (preliminary questions) sheet. Also, make sure that at least one
calculator is brought to the lab period to perform calculations during experimentation.
Vibration has been covered in ME 121 and ME 163. Textbooks for these courses are useful
references in preparing for, performing, and writing-up this lab. In addition, in this handout a number
of background sections have been assembled from the equipment manuals to provide a brief review
of the physics and mathematics of vibrations as well as to aid you in understanding the experimental
system.


Before beginning work:

Review the basic safety information for the ECP systems, which is given on pages A3-A6,
copied from the manual (pages 31-33 of the rectilinear system manual).
In addition you need to be careful during lab not to change or manipulate the systems in any
way unless specifically instructed to do so.