UDCF Instrumented Pendulum Cutting Rig v3.1

Abstract

UDCF Instrumented Pendulum Cutting Rig v3.1 The repository contains the source code for the UDCF Instrumented Pendulum Cutting Rig v3.1. This simulator serves as a Digital Twin, allowing researchers to predict severance success (η ≥ 1) or sub-critical impact based on the kinematic energy of a swinging pendulum. Version 3.1 introduces rigorous physical calibration, enhanced data tracking capabilities, and precise critical velocity tracking that fully incorporates the material recovery factor (kY). Key Features Dynamic Unit Conversion: Input data in m, mm, μm, MPa, Pa, mm², or m². Real-time Physics Engine: Calculates Impact Velocity (v) and Kinetic Energy (Ek) instantly. The v3.1 engine incorporates a precise 0.45 J calibration energy loss to account for bearing friction, ensuring exact alignment with physical rig behaviour. Critical Velocity Tracking: Dynamically computes the critical velocity (vc) threshold required to achieve material severance. Dimensionless Analysis: Determines the Predictive Separation Index (η) using the governing UDCF equation. Visual Schematic: Interactive SVG-based rig that animates the impact, pendulum follow-through, and material failure. Data Export: Includes an "Export Research Data" function to generate downloadable, timestamped reports detailing SI vector analysis and simulation outcomes. The Governing Equations The rig operates on the principle of the Predictive Separation Index (η): η = kY [ (mv²) / (2 · d · τult · A) ] ≥ 1 The impact velocity (v), accounting for the 0.45 J calibration loss and a standard pendulum length (L) of 1.2 m, is derived as: v = √{ 2[mgL(1 − cosθ) − 0.45] / m } The critical velocity (vc), which represents the minimum velocity required to achieve material severance (where η = 1), incorporates the recovery factor (kY) and is calculated as: vc = √{ (2 · d · τult · A) / (m · kY) } Where: kY = Recovery Factor m = Tool Mass (Standard: 15.0 kg) v = Impact Velocity vc = Critical Velocity d = Specimen Thickness τult = Ultimate Shear Strength A = Contact Area g = Gravitational Acceleration (9.80665 m/s²) θ = Release Angle Installation & Usage Clone the repository. Install dependencies: npm install Run the application: npm start Adjust the "Rig Setup" and "Specimen & Recovery Properties" to observe real-time changes in (η). Toggle the Safety Interlock to release the pendulum and test severance. Research Body Lead Researcher: Clifford Yeboah Institute: The Yeboah Institute Research License This project is licensed under the MIT License - see the [LICENSE](LICENSE) file for details. Citation If this Digital Twin is utilised in academic research, please cite it as: Yeboah, C. (2026). UDCF Instrumented Pendulum Cutting Rig v3.1 [Software]. The Yeboah Institute Research.