Applying the Dynamic Inertia Measurement Method to Full-Scale Aerospace Vehicles

Researchers at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center have been interested in using the Dynamic Inertia Measurement (DIM) method on full-scale aerospace test vehicles, given its advantages over traditional methods for determining the mass properties of such vehicles. Developed at the University of Cincinnati, the DIM method uses a ground vibration test setup to determine mass properties using data from frequency-response functions. The method has been successfully tested on a number of small-scale test articles — including automobile brake rotors, steel blocks, and custom fixtures — but until now, has had limited success being tested in larger applications. Armstrong’s recent efforts, in conjunction with ground vibration tests, represent a step forward in applying the DIM method successfully to full-scale aerospace vehicles.