Question

A bumper, consisting of a nest of three springs, is used to arrest the horizontal motion of a large mass which is traveling at 27 ft/sec as it contacts the bumper. The two outer springs cause a deceleration proportional to the spring deformation. The center spring increases the deceleration rate when the compression exceeds 3 in. as shown on the graph. Determine the maximum compression x of the outer springs.

Answer 1

Hint:
Assume no dissicipative (e.g. friction) losses, then use energy/work to solve the problem.
KE=sum of potential energies stored in spring.

Answer 2

thanks :)

Answer 3

You're welcome! :)