A device for generating impacts on a structure has a projectile head. The head includes a main body on which an impact element is mounted so it projects. The device includes a mechanical propulsion element to set the projectile head in motion, and the propulsion element can move between an initial resting position where the propulsion element is immobile and the projectile head is held against the propulsion element by at least one retaining element, and a second position where after the propulsion element comes to a stop against stop elements, the projectile head moves alone in translation toward the structure guided by guidance elements. The device also includes an anti-rebound system to prevent any rebound by the projectile head after impact on the structure.