How to Calculate Vertical Impact Loads

When computing vertical impact loads, you need to take into account the beginning and ending energies. You can compute these by utilizing calculus-based projectile equations. You also have to assume gravity is the only force impending on the load. Additionally, computations need to be made separately for horizontal and vertical coordinates. You will need to know the height of the drop, size of the load and then you can calculate for the vertical impact.

Instructions

    • 1

      Calculate the initial velocity components using "Vy(0)" and "Vx(0)." Imagine, for example, a helicopter drops a package downward from the top of a 25-story building at an angle 30 degrees from vertical, with a velocity of 500 meters per second. Then Vy(0) = 500 x sin (-60) = -250√3 m/s and Vx(0) = 500 x cos (-60) = 250 m/s.

    • 2

      Calculate the time (t) of impact. Use the initial and final coordinates as well as the velocity value. Imagine the helicopter is 50 m above ground level.

      Choose (0,0) as the original coordinates. When computing, y(t)=y(0)+Vy(0)t-0.5gt^2 becomes -50=-250√3t-4.90t^2.

    • 3

      Calculate with the equation 2a(y(t)-y(0))=Vy(t)^2-Vy(0)^2 to solve for the vertical impact load.

    • 4

      Compute the vertical impact loads utilizing the Pythagorean theorem to sum the final velocity, V(t)^2 = Vx(t)^2 + Vy(t)^2.

      The package accelerated in its descent, because gravity pulled it down.

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