Dynamics loading by swinging bells—Experimental and numerical investigation of the novel yoke–bell–clapper system with variable geometry

The dynamics of swinging bells is a timely problem considered when the bell’s supporting structures are designed or monitored. The geometry of a yoke and the magnitude of an excitation force are crucial parameters determining a yoke–bell–clapper system response for a given shape and size of the bell. This paper presents the novel yoke–bell–clapper system with variable geometry and adjustable excitation force. A mathematical model based on the existing prototype is introduced. The mathematical model is validated, and then the influence of the yoke geometry and excitation force on the system response is assessed. The simulations are done using a sample-based approach. The system that undergoes investigation is non-linear, piecewise, and discontinuous. The derived mathematical model can reliably predict the ringing scheme of a bell and associated reaction forces in the supports.