Optimum exciter placement for normal mode force appropriation
A method of predicting optimum exciter placement for normal mode testing using an a priori mathematical dynamic model of the test structure is presented and compared to other approaches. A genetic algorithm is used to perform the search for an optimum where the number of possible combinations is too large for an exhaustive search. The proposed methodology is also shown to provide an estimate of the effective number of modes in a given frequency range. The technique is demonstrated using a mathematical model of a benchmark rectangular perspex plate and the results validated experimentally. The technique is also applied to a model of a representative aircraft structure. Finally, an extension of this methodology, suitable for mid-test exciter optimization, is described.