Use of the Processing Oscilloscope in Evaluating Small Engine Manual Starting Dynamics

A method has been developed for measuring the dynamic forces exerted in the pull starting of small engines. The mechanics of the pull are recorded via a digital system of data acquisition and broken down into the fundamental mechanical units of force, work, power and velocity. These values can be used to objectively analyze an engine's starting characteristics, with respect to ergonomics, and help eliminate inherent inaccuracies often found in subjective tests.