Measurement Uncertainty Analysis of an Accelerometer Calibration Using a POC Electromagnetic Launcher
A pulse forming network (PFN), helical electromagnetic launcher (HEML), command module (CM), and calibration table (CT) were built and evaluated for the combined ability to calibrate an accelerometer. The PFN has a maximum stored nergy of 19.25 kJ bank and is fired by a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR), with appropriate safety precautions. The HEML is constructed out of G-10 fiberglass reinforced epoxy and is designed to accelerate a mass of 600 grams to a velocity of 10 meters per second. The CM is microcontroller-based running Arduino Software. The CM has a keypad input and 7 segment outputs of the PFN voltage and desired charging voltage. After entering a desired PFN voltage, the CM controls the charging of the PFN. When the two voltages are equal it sends a pulse to the SCR to fire the PFN and in turn, the HEML. The HEML projectile’s tip hits a target that is held by the CT. The CT consists of a table to hold the PFN and HEML, a vacuum chuck, air bearing, velocimeter and catch pot. The target is held with the vacuum chuck awaiting impact. After impact, the air bearing allows the target to fall freely so that the velocimeter can accurately read. A known acceleration is determined from the known change in velocity of the target. Thus, if an accelerometer was attached to the target, the measured value can be compared to the known value.
- Research Organization:
- Kansas City Plant (KCP), Kansas City, MO (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
- OSTI ID:
- 1134044
- Report Number(s):
- KCP-613-9172
- Journal Information:
- IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and measurement, Journal Name: IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and measurement
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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