Finite Element Model Updating of the Garteur SM-AG19 Structure

This paper reports the procedure followed by the "LTAS-Vibrations et Identification des Structures" research group to generate a low order nite element (F.E.) model of the GARTEUR SM-AG19 structure proposed as benchmark in the framework of the European COST Action F3 in structural dynamics. The model is made of beam elements, local inertia and rigid body elements. First, the correlation of the experimental data with the results of the F.E. model shows different levels of discrepancies. To perform local error detection, the size of the measured mode shape vectors is first expanded to the size of the F.E. eigenvectors. Model error localisation is based on the computation of residual strain energy due to errors in the constitutive equations. Updating parameters are then selected using eigenvalue sensitivity and local error analyses. The error localisation procedure is followed by the updating process in order to improve the accuracy of the FE models. The quality of the results is assessed in terms of accuracy of the response prediction to structural modifications.