Noise source identification and dynamic modeling of a pneumatic nailing device

Abstract

Exposure to hazardous noise levels emitted by pneumatic nailing devices contributes significantly to risk of hearing damage among the construction workers throughout the world. This health problem comes from the lack of appropriate technology such as low noise devices which in turn results from the lack of scientific knowledge about designing reduced noise devices. This study contributes to the design improvement of pneumatic nailing devices through identifying the noise sources and developing the simulation tool required to redesign the pneumatic nailing device. To identify the noise sources, the study uses a combination of two complementary experimental approaches. The first makes use of time-synchronized data analysis of several variables during the machine operation. This strategy allows identifying the physical processes and provides a detailed separation of the noise generation mechanisms in successive time sequences. However, since multiple noise sources radiate at the same time, this observation approach is not sufficient for noise source identification and ranking. Thus, it is completed by a selective wrapping and muffler procedure. This technique provides overall generated noise associated with each process, as well as ranking of the three major sources: (1) exhaust noise, (2) machine body vibrations, and (3) workpiece vibrations. A special investigation is conducted on this third one with two cases: a workpiece/worktable setup representative of the actual field usage of a nailing device and a workpiece/sandbox setup used in a standardized laboratory test. The study evaluates the efficiency of the workpiece/sandbox setup in reducing the workpiece radiation and obtains a typical workpiece contribution on an actual worksite. To provide a simulation tool, a dynamic model of the pneumatic nailing device needs to be developed. Dynamic modeling of the nailing device requires mathematical modeling of the physical processes involved in its operation. All of these processes can be described through already existing mathematical relations, except for the penetration resistance force (PRF) imposed on the nails when penetrating the wood. The PRF depends on various factors. This study follows two approaches in parallel to develop an empirical prediction law for the PRF: quasi-static and high-speed. The quasi-static approach provides a rapid and precise representation of the law at quasistatic penetration velocities. The law covers the entire displacement range, various nail geometries and sizes, and wood types. The high-speed approach aims to provide a law which covers a much wider range of penetration velocities. The approach is complicated since it requires a sophisticated test machine to conduct the nail driving tests at high penetration velocities. The study designs and fabricates an advanced test machine to later extend the prediction range of the PRF law. The last part of this study develops the dynamic model of a nail gun while integrating the quasi-static PRF law. The model includes dynamics of all the air chambers and the moving parts, and interactions and impacts/contacts between different parts. The study integrates a comprehensive experimental validation of the model. Future improvements in the dynamic model precision will be possible by using the extended version of the PRF law.

Date	28 Jun 2016
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	École de technologie supérieure
Supervisor	Frédéric Laville (Supervisor) & Raynald Guilbault (Co-supervisor)