This paper presents and discusses the results obtained from a parametric study on the Baumgarte stabilization method for forward dynamics of constrained multibody systems. The main purpose of this work is to analyze the influence of the variables that affect the violation of constraints, chiefly the values of the Baumgarte parameters, the integration method, the time step, and the quality of the initial conditions for the positions. In the sequel of this process, the formulation of the rigid multibody systems is reviewed. The generalized Cartesian coordinates are selected as the variables to describe the bodies’ degrees of freedom. The formulation of the equations of motion uses the Newton–Euler approach, augmented with the constraint equations that lead to a set of differential algebraic equations. Furthermore, the main issues related to the stabilization of the violation of constraints based on the Baumgarte approach are revised. Special attention is also given to some techniques that help in the selection process of the values of the Baumgarte parameters, namely, those based on the Taylor’s series and the Laplace transform technique. Finally, a slider-crank mechanism with eccentricity is considered as an example of application in order to illustrate how the violation of constraints can be affected by different factors.

Measurements of whole-body vibration are fundamental to access and evaluate comfort levels and possible injury development in the human being. International standards such as ISO 2631 and ISO 10326 are dedicated to the measurement and validation of mechanical systems to access vibration levels. Nowadays, the traditional measurement devices require multiple components and so hence become highly bulky, do not allow autonomous data recording, and are expensive. Following the previously mentioned standards, the present research is focused on the design and validation of a new and economic whole-body vibration measurement device. The developed device, besides being capable to measure the whole-body vibration, allows the user to select multiple sample ratings, is capable to record data on a µSD card, is easily moved and adapted, and is autonomous and low cost. This device is composed of three main components: a tri-axial accelerometer, a protective metal case, and semi-rigid rubber disc. Shaker tests were conducted to evaluate the measurement capability of the whole system and the influence of each component on the vibration measurements. This article will introduce the design and development steps for the proposed system. Concerning the validation phase, its results will be discussed and analyzed.