Application of Sensing & Actuation for Online Hybrid Testing of Structural Control Devices

On-line hybrid tests couple virtual structures under dynamic loading with physical sub-structures or devices in a dynamic test rig. The use of sensors and actuators in a closed-loop feedback system maintains the dynamic equilibrium of the overall system comprising the physical test article and virtual modelled structure. This research presents simple, cost-effective and robust hybrid test system by cleverly melding the sensors and actuators with virtual model. It outlines solutions to the major issues faced in developing any hybrid system. The overall approach is centred on the dSpaceTM real-time control system development tool