Smithers Pira Advanced Distribution Testing Knowledge
Current packaged product distribution testing is based on well established methods: however there is considerable research and development in the international research and equipment supplier communities. Smithers Pira is proud to be a pro-active and independent member of these communities and is in a unique position to provide clients with updates and advice on new developments, and to provide advanced test methodologies where appropriate. As Smithers Pira does not produce testing software or testing equipment, our advice comes with independence and without influence.
Smithers Pira believes that high level participation in advanced and developing methodologies is integral to delivering value to clients. It is through understanding of the benefits and limitations of established methods (as well as being able to offer cutting edge expertise and methodologies) that Smithers Pira is able to deliver effective testing solutions.
Advanced Vibration Testing Techniques
Currently there is active interest in 'reality' of broadband random vibration testing. Smithers Pira has invested in equipment and understanding to allow it to offer testing and investigation harnessing state of the art approaches including:
- Intensity modulated broadband random vibration testing (kurtosis correction through applied non-stationarity)
- Time replication vibration testing (true reproduction of recorded journeys)
- Multi-axis testing (in partnership with Bath University)
- Mixed mode testing
- Advanced monitoring and analysis
- Field data studies and focused simulations.
Vibration Testing Research with Bath University
Smithers Pira is now funding a PhD research project with Bath University to explore a statistically valid method of using real time vibration signals (time based, as opposed to frequency based in PSDs) to enable better replication of real life, without the limitations intrinsic in random testing.
Smithers Pira's Current Package Testing Research Involvement
- IAPRI's vibration research working group (Smithers Pira is a founder member of IAPRI, the International Association of Packaging Research Institutes)
- IAPRI symposia and conferences
- ISTA Field Data Workshops and Distribution Packaging events (in Europe and the US)
- Personal links with respected experts in Europe, China, Australia and US
- Smithers Pira directly sponsors a PhD student in vibration research at Bath University in the UK (five star rated university)
- Smithers Pira undertakes and publishes work on topics in the field of random vibration testing and test acceleration
- Group staff includes David Shires, Editor-in-Chief of PTS (Packaging Technology and Science)
- Undergraduate placement undertaking in-house projects.