Impact Mechanics Explorer

Live Script exploring impact mechanics of smooth objects.

This Live Script explores collisions of smooth objects with a simple impulse model. It derives the linear and angular momentum transfer function through symbolic solution of multiple kinematic equations plus a constraint equation in two equivalent ways.

The script considers two-dimensional planar objects but is cast in three dimensions. The calculations may be generalized to 3d by replacing moment of inertia scalars by tensors. It generates a transfer function so the results may be reused. An illustration function created with the assistance of ChatGPT4o is included.

This script may interest animators and students and instructors of physics. 'Try this' and 'Challenge' suggestions are included along with references for further exploration.