Rigid/Unyielding Surface Characterization Using Modal Testing Techniques

One requirement for impact tests, performed for packaging qualification, is that the target surface or target supporting surface must be “essentially unyielding”. The definition of “essentially unyielding,”, includes the characteristics of being both rigid and unyielding. The unyielding characteristic of a surface is shown without much difficulty by demonstrating limited, local permanent deformation after impact. However, for a surface to be proven rigid, the structural properties that influence the dynamic response must be known and compared to the energy spectrum associated with anticipated impact tests. The methodology and procedure for a cost effective approach using standard modal testing techniques to quickly demonstrate that a surface in essentially unyielding, is described herein.