Drop Test Release Mechanism

Author(s) Information

Sophie M. Getty, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Matthew A. Tichenor, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Nash W. Levy, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Connor D. Dilloughery, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 2

College of Engineering

Department - Author 2

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 2

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 3

College of Engineering

Department - Author 3

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 3

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 4

College of Engineering

Department - Author 4

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 4

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Date

6-2023

Primary Advisor

Peter Schuster, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department

Abstract/Summary

Many boxes for shipping undergo drop tests by the manufacturer to ensure their durability. Certain constraints are necessary to successfully carry out these tests such as not damaging the box prior to the drop and maintaining consistency throughout every drop.

Our team has designed a Drop Test Release Mechanism that addresses these constraints. It provides repetitive drops for different objects that vary in shape and size such as small electronics or parts. This device utilizes a soft-clamping mechanism that can release an object with minimal force applied onto it prior to drop. A frame made of 80/20 was designed to provide rigidity to the soft-clamping mechanism. The soft clamping mechanism supports the object between it by utilizing foam and a friction pad to induce a high friction force. The clamp can be adjusted for multiple sized objects by use of sliding rails that allow it to widen or tighten. Our design focuses on just the release of the test object. A test stand to introduce varying heights must be designed for a fully functional drop test measurement process.

The final prototype was tested to analyze the effectiveness of our design. The tests involved verifying the repeatability of the drop mechanism by testing the object to see if it fell in the same orientation and with the same impact each time. The drop mechanism passed these tests but failed at a usability test and an electronic test. The report goes into detail about the design and testing of the prototype.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/700