FINITE-ELEMENT MODEL TUNING USING AUTOMATED STRUCTURAL OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM SOFTWARE

A method of adjusting analytical finite element models to measured dat a is presented. The algorithm uses a mathematical optimization strateg y to minimize deviations between measured and analytical modal frequen cies and partial mode shapes. A mode tracking algorithm is used to ide ntify and account for mode switching during the optimization process. The algorithm was successfully implemented using the Automated Structu ral Optimization System Software. Experimental results are presented f or tuning a lightly damped 6-m flexible frame structure. The results d emonstrate excellent agreement between the tuned model and measured da ta and illustrate the importance of off-nominal validation before acce pting a model for simulation purposes.