System Identification Using Sinusoidal Test Data

System identification--the refinement of an analytical model to match test data--is presented as it pertains to dynamic testing via sinusoidal shakers. Each phase of the system identification process is illustrated: pretest model formulation, sinusoidal testing, eigenparameter identification, and post-test model refinement.

Examples are shown from full-scale sinusoidal tests on actual structures. Also included is a brief discussion of structural non-linearities and their effects on results obtained from the system identification process.