Quantification and minimization of sensor effects on modal parameters of lightweight structures

This paper aims to quantify the adverse effects of contact type sensors on modal parameters of lightweight structures and to present a practical way for identification of modal parameters of structures with minimal sensor effects. The adverse effects of a contact type sensor on natural frequencies, damping levels and mode shapes are explored using the theoretical model of a typical beam-like sample carrying a sensor and a controlled experimental study based on measurement of frequency response functions using non-contact excitation and response sensors. The half-power and circle fit modal identification methods are used to extract modal parameter from measured data. The experimental and theoretical modal analysis results are evaluated, and a practical methodology based on classical acoustic and vibration frequency response functions is suggested to identify modal loss factors and natural frequencies of lightweight structures with minimal sensor effects