Prediction Capabilities of Damped Updated Finite Element Models
Model updating techniques are used to correct the finite element model of a structure using experimental data such that the updated model more correctly describes the dynamic properties of the structure. One of the applications of such an updated model is to predict the effects of making modifications to the structure. These modifications may be imposed by design alterations for operating reasons. Most of the model updating techniques neglect damping and so these updated models can’t be used for accurate prediction of complex frequency response functions (FRFs) and complex mode shapes. In this paper, a detailed comparison of prediction capabilities of parameter-based and non parameter-based damped updated methods for structural modifications is done. The suitability of paramter-based and non parameter-based damped updated models for predicting the effects of structural modifications is evaluated by laboratory experiment for the case of an F-shape test structure. It is concluded that parameter-based damped updated models are likely to perform better in predicting the effects of structural modifications.