Abstract: Methods and assemblies for performing ground vibration testing are provided. A method for supporting a vehicle for ground vibration testing includes lifting the vehicle from a ground surface; locating a nose support fixture under the vehicle nose, wherein the nose support fixture comprises an A-frame formed from aft and second rafter structures; an overhead crossbar configured for removable attachment to the tops of the rafter structures, wherein an internal space is defined between the rafter structures; and an extension member received within the internal space; mounting the extension member to a nose landing gear axle; removing the overhead crossbar from the tops of the of the rafter structures; encircling the overhead crossbar and the extension member with a desired number of elastic bands; connecting the overhead crossbar to the tops of the of the rafter structures; and lowering the vehicle to allow the elastic bands to support the vehicle.

Abstract: A system and related methodology for inflicting structural impact damage to an article are disclosed. Certain embodiments of the system include: a main support body; a guide tube having a lower end region couplable to the main support body, and having a hollow interior passageway; an adjustable weight assembly receivable and moveable within the hollow interior passageway; an impact tip receivable within an opening formed in a lower end section of the main support body, the impact tip movable within the opening such that an exposed length of the impact tip protrudes outside of the main support body; and a travel-limiting assembly associated with the impact tip. The travel-limiting assembly is adjustable to define a variable maximum penetration depth of the impact tip relative to the article.