5. Characterization of a Small Electro-Mechanical Contact Using LDV Measurement Techniques

Numerically modeling chatter behavior of small electrical components embedded within larger components is challenging. Reduced order models (ROMs) have been developed to assess these components’ chatter behavior in vibration and shock environments. These ROMs require experimental validation to instill confidence that these components meet their performance requirements. While achieving conservative results, experimental validation is required, especially considering that the ROMs neglect the viscous damping effects of the fluid that surrounds these particular components within their system. Dynamic ring-down data of the electrical receptacles in air will be explored and will be assessed as to whether that data provides a validation data set for this ROM. Additional data will be examined in which dynamic ring-down data was taken on the receptacle while submerged in an oil, resulting in a unique experimental setup that should prove as a proof of concept for this type of testing on small components in unique environments.