Methods and apparatus for high frequency impact testing

A method for impact testing a test structure, comprising:

• positioning a potential energy storage system adjacent to a surface of the test structure;
• coupling at least one sensor to a surface of the test structure;
• coupling a mass to the potential energy storage system;
• activating the potential energy storage system to store a predetermined amount of mechanical energy;
• actuating the potential energy storage system to release the stored mechanical energy in the form of kinetic energy and impart linear momentum to the mass such that the mass decouples from the potential energy storage system and impinges upon the test structure;
• measuring the shock response of the test structure via the at least one sensor;
• and
• displaying a visual representation of the shock response.

A high-frequency impact device comprising:

• a plunger assembly coupled to and coaxial with a linear spring;
• a winch assembly configured to adjustably retract the plunger assembly and compress the linear spring;
• a latch mechanism coupled between the winch assembly and plunger assembly and configured to selectably release the plunger from the winch assembly;
• and
• a magnetic hold-and-release mechanism coupled to one end of the plunger assembly and configured to releasably hold a metallic sphere.