Abstract
A methodology is proposed for dynamic testing, modal identification and model correlation of structures which are assembled in an evolutionary manner. The methodology prescribes initial testing of the base structure without any attached components. As components are added onto the base structure, additional tests are performed. Three testing options are proposed, all of which enable to update the physical parameters of the components only using a Bayesian Estimation Technique (BET). Improvements to former BET implementations have been made, all of which contribute to higher fidelity models and more efficient computational times. These improvements include an optimal modal expansion technique, an error localization technique based on element modal strain energy errors, a model reduction option with component mode synthesis, and a line search algorithm to accelerate convergence. The proposed methodology has been successfully tested on an actual evolutionary structure, and significant improvement from the updated pre-test model are demonstrated.
