Novel low-frequency accelerometer calibrator

Accelerometer calibration at low frequencies of the order of 1 Hz requires special-purpose large-displacement vibrators to ensure adequate response and signal-to-noise ratio. This article describes a simple and inexpensive mechanical oscillator which can be used to provide the necessary vibration stimulus for the purposes of calibration. A primary feature of this device is the ability to generate relatively large displacement and distortion-free harmonic motion when excited by a small displacement and possibly highly distorted source. The system has been demonstrated to achieve repeatable and accurate comparative calibrations.