Abstract: An improved device for simulating gravel impact damage on panels, such as protected and unprotected areas of painted vehicle panels, is disclosed. The gravel impact damage simulator includes an enclosure, a gravel inlet port having an extension spout, a motor-driven rotatable impeller below the inlet port, a downwardly angled baffle between the inlet port and the impeller, and a test panel slot through which a test panel may be inserted into the enclosure. During operation, gravel is introduced through the extension spout and inlet port. The gravel drops into the angled baffle, where it is directed toward the rotating impeller. The rotating impeller strikes the gravel and projects it toward the test panel.

Abstract: An improved device for simulating gravel impact damage on panels, such as protected and unprotected areas of painted vehicle panels, is disclosed. The gravel impact damage simulator includes an enclosure, a gravel inlet port having an extension spout, a motor-driven rotatable impeller below the inlet port, a downwardly angled baffle between the inlet port and the impeller, and a test panel slot through which a test panel may be inserted into the enclosure. During operation, gravel is introduced through the extension spout and inlet port. The gravel drops into the angled baffle, where it is directed toward the rotating impeller. The rotating impeller strikes the gravel and projects it toward the test panel.