Finite element model updating of large structures by the clustering of parameter sensitivities

Finite element model updating of a Westland Lynx XZ649 helicopter tail is presented. Eigenvalue sensitivities with respect to Young's modulus and mass density are used. Large groups based on material input data were divided to form smaller subgroups so that those parts of the model responsible for errors in the predicted eigenvalues were located. A particular new development was the use of parameter clustering based on the similarity of different columns of the sensitivity matrix. Finally the finite element model was updated successfully with regard to the lower frequency tail-bending modes.