Optimal Exciter Placement and Force Vector Tuning Required for Experimental Modal Analysis.

Abstract

Experiencies gained with present modal survey test techniques range from excellent results to unrealistic normal mode parameters. Present experimental modal analysis procedures auffer under the absence of a criterion for optimal exciter placement. In order to increase the reliability and robustness of modern identification methods, a technique for optimal exciter point selection was developed based on combinatorical optimization. Applying three force tuning procedures published in the past and a new method, reliable normal mode parameters of an analytical eleven-degree-of-freedom system and of a real structure could be determined, which verifies the performance of the proposed technique.