The Integrated Test Analysis Process for Structural Dynamic Systems

Book excerpt: Over the past 60 years, the U.S. aerospace community has developed, refined, and standardized an integrated approach to structural dynamic model verification and validation. One name for this overall approach is the Integrated Test Analysis Process (ITAP) for structural dynamic systems. ITAP consists of seven sequential tasks, namely: (1) definition of test article finite element models; (2) systematic modal test planning; (3) measured data acquisition; (4) measured data analysis; (5) experimental modal analysis; (6) systematic test-analysis correlation; and (7) reconciliation of finite element models and modal test data. Steps 1, 2, and 7 rely strictly on mathematical model disciplines, and steps 3 and 4 rely on laboratory disciplines and techniques. Current industry practice of steps 5 and 6 calls for interaction of mathematical model and laboratory disciplines, which compromises the objectivity of both modeling and laboratory disciplines. This book addresses technical content, strategies, and key relevant experiences related to all steps of ITAP, except for measured data acquisition which is the specialized domain of highly experienced laboratory professionals who contend with mechanical and electrical practicalities of instrumentation, excitation hardware, and data collection systems.