Two-Stage Mechanical Oscillator As An Energy Input Amplifier

Abstract

This study aims to analyse and experimentally validate the performance of a two-stage mechanical oscillator as an energy input amplifier. At first glance, the system appears to violate the law of conservation of energy, but this is due to misinterpretation of the energy inputs involved. When measuring the efficiency, the energy used to move the pendulum is regarded as the input energy without considering the pendulum's energy. Because of this omission, the system can appear to defy the aforementioned law. To dispel any doubts, the theory part explains how the pendulum's energy is calculated. Then, both input and output forces are measured using the prototype. It is assumed that the pendulum is already in motion when given energy is applied to maintain its continuous movement. Weight sensors are used in the prototype model, one placed on the pendulum for input readings and another at the end of the lever for output readings. And angle sensor for pendulum movement. When the lever is in equilibrium, the first set of measurements is taken without load, while the second set with a load equal to half of the pendulum's weight. Experimental data confirm that the total system energy remains conserved, validating the theoretical model, and proving that efficiency exceeds 100% with the pendulum.