Energy implications of a load depending on geometrical configurations in an oscillator

Abstract

This paper studies, for a specific oscillatory system composed by a pendulum connected to a seesaw, how the geometry of the different mechanisms of energy introduction conditions the resulting movement, to achieve both a greater amplitude of oscillation due to a change of velocity and an acceleration in its movement. The different configurations that give rise to the acceleration of motion are therefore analyzed. The study is carried out from a kinematic point of view, theoretically simulating an energy increase in the system and analyzing its response in terms of angular velocity and of modification of apparent weight. Subsequently, the force diagram necessary to generate the accelerated motion is analyzed. The magnitude of the external force to be applied and its dependence on the direction and angular instant in which it are exerted is evaluated. It is observed how for some specific configurations this magnitude is negative, implying that the system is capable of accelerating when subjected to a brake or load on it.