Structural finite element model updating using transfer function data

A new method is presented for the finite element model updating of structures at the element level utilizing Frequency Response Function data. Response sensitivities with respect to the change of mass and stiffness parameters are indirectly evaluated using the decomposed form of the FRF. Solution of these sensitivity equations through the Least Square algorithm and weighting of these equations has been addressed to achieve parameter estimation with a high accuracy. Numerical examples using noise polluted data confirm that the proposed method can be an alternative to conventional model updating methods even in the presence of mass modeling errors. (C) 2009 Published by Elsevier Ltd.