Modal Parameter Extraction LabVIEW VIs
Modal Parameter Extraction, a subset of Modal Analysis, consists of a set of algorithms used to identify
the modal parameters of a structure (natural frequency, damping ratio, mode shapes). These
algorithms are either used for experimental research or for operational on-line monitoring. These
algorithms include Peak Picking, Least Square Complex Exponential Fit, Frequency Domain Polynomial
Fit, Stochastic Subspace Identification, and FRF Synthesis. Each of these algorithms perform the same
function of identifying the modal parameters, however, each are optimized for a specific test scenario.
Click here to download the Modal Parameter Extraction LabVIEW VIs.
*Note that to apply these functions, you need to install LabVIEW 8.6 or later, with the LabVIEW
Advanced Signal Processing Toolkit (ASPT), and LabVIEW System Identification Toolkit (Sys ID).
Experimental Modal Analysis
Experimental Modal Analysis is the field of measuring and analyzing the dynamic response of a structure
when excited by a stimulus. Experimental Modal Analysis is useful in verifying FEA results as well as
determining the modal parameters of a structure. This type of analysis is used primarily in research and
scale model testing. The following algorithms are available as LabVIEW VIs and available for download
below.
Peak Picking
Peak Picking is a method used to extract a mode from a pre-computed signal’s Frequency Response
Function (FRF). It is a frequency domain Single-Degree-of-Freedom (SDOF) modal analysis method and
suitable to estimate uncoupled and lightly damped modes. The computation is fast but the result is
sensitive to the frequency shift.
Least Square Complex Exponential Fit
Least Square Complex Exponential Fit (LSCE) is used to simultaneously extract multiple modes from pre-
computed signal’s FRF. It is a time domain Multiple-Degree-of-Freedom (MDOF) modal analysis method
and suitable for estimating modes in a wide frequency band. It is ideal for lightly damped modes.
Frequency Domain Polynomial Fit
Frequency Domain Polynomial Fit (FDPI) is used to simultaneously extract multiple modes from pre-
computed signal’s FRF. It is a frequency domain MDOF modal analysis method suitable to estimate
heavily damped modes, particularly for heavily damped modes in a narrow frequency band.
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Operational Modal Analysis
Operational Modal Analysis is the field of measuring and analyzing the dynamic response of a structure
when in operation. Operational Modal Analysis is focused on the real-time on-line monitoring of a
structure. Because the stimulus is unknown (ambient conditions such as wind, cars, seismic activity,
etc.), a different set of algorithms are used. The following algorithm is available as a LabVIEW VI and
available for download below.
Stochastic Subspace Identification
Stochastic Subspace Identification (SSI) is used to simultaneously extract multiple modes from time data
samples. It is a time domain MDOF Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) method. Stochastic Subspace
Identification does not require knowledge of the stimulus and only analyzes the time domain vibration
data of a structure in operation. It is used primarily for on-line monitoring of structures such as bridges.
Modal Analysis Verification
Modal Analysis Verification is a process of verifying the Modal Parameter Extraction results by re-
creating the FRF data. This method allows for a quick comparison to the original FRF data for validation.
FRF Synthesis
FRF Synthesis is used to create synthetic FRF for testing and evaluation. With computed modal
parameters, you can compare synthesized FRF and original FRF to verify the resulting estimation.
Click here to download the Modal Parameter Extraction LabVIEW VIs.
Click here to download the Evaluation Version of LabVIEW.
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