Identification and updating of loading in frameworks using dynamic measurements

This paper is concerned with the effect of structural loading on dynamic performance. This topic is recognised as being of importance when validating finite element (FE) models with experimental data. A strategy for including axial load effects in a model updating procedure is developed. The method can be used to identify loading in structural frameworks using measured dynamic data. The effectiveness of the new method is demonstrated by means of case studies involving both simulated and experimental data. The theoretical study allows aspects of the sensitivity of the method to realistic levels of experimental noise to be studied as well as the way in which dynamic load identification can be enhanced with static measurements. The experimental case study proves the practical success of the technique. Updated axial load parameters are compared with static measurements of the same quantities. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.