Isolation arrangement for system under test

Abstract

An arrangement for isolating an energy transfer system while it is subjected to a test process for noise. The energy transfer system is of the type having an energy input and at least one energy output, and may be mechanical or electrical. The isolation arrangement has a base that supports the energy transfer system. An isolation support supporting the energy transfer system, yet affords multiple degrees of freedom with respect to the base. The energy transfer system is clamped in a manner that permits the multiple degrees of freedom with respect to the base, via an engagement arrangement that secures the energy transfer system to the isolation support. The engagement arrangement has a first position with respect to the base wherein the energy transfer system is installable on, and removable from, the isolation support, and a second position wherein the energy transfer system is secured to the isolation support means. Engagement is effected by an actuation element that is effectively decoupled from the base after clamping is achieved. In a mechanical embodiment, rotatory energy is provided to the energy transfer system exclusively as torque, without any significant axial bias. Additionally, processes for signal analysis enable “pass/fail” determinations to be made with respect to noisiness of the system under test, as well as the presence of bumps and nicks in gear systems under test.