| Absolute methods of accelerometer calibration while being subjected to shock are generally unavailable, and the need for a method of calibration that simulates an actual use situation, such as shock, has long been overlooked.; The proposed method is an absolute method of calibration that can be used to determine, within 5%, the sensitivity of a piezoelectric accelerometer while being subjected to shock. It is also insensitive to filtering and acceptable for use throughout a range of g levels common to the packaging industry.; The method involves an accelerometer mounted onto the head of a hammer. The hammer, including accelerometer, is released to rotate onto any suitable impact surface. Video recording captures the drop, and the rebound angle of the hammer is measured through the slow motion replay of the video.; The method is designed to be an in-house supplement to packaging laboratory equipment that is inexpensive to manufacture and cost effective to implement. It provides a quick and accurate method to generate confidence in the sensitivity of piezoelectric accelerometers at any point throughout their lifespan without the use of reference or special equipment. |
