Using Multi-shaker Force Control Methods in Modal Analysis

Abstract

Shaker excitation is a popular technique in experimental modal analysis because it gives the practitioner a high level of control and repeatability in the excitation. However, the dynamics of the shaker and test article can fundamentally limit the excitation bandwidth when a voltage-mode amplifier is used to power the shaker. Further, multiple shakers can couple to one-another through the test article and correlate the forces during a multiple-input / multiple-output modal test, potentially impa