Modal Analysis Research Articles

Design and experimental validation of a broadband multi-modal coupled capsule-shaped transducer for underwater acoustics

This paper introduces a novel approach to expand the working frequency band of underwater acoustic transducers through multi-modal coupling. We designed a broadband multi-modal coupled piezoelectric capsule-shaped transducer structure by leveraging the advantages of conventional piezoelectric spherical-shell and piezoelectric cylindrical-tube transducers. First, the finite element method (FEM) was employed to scrutinize the influence of key structural parameters on the acoustic performance of the capsule-shaped transducer, thereby establishing the foundation for the final transducer design. Subsequently, the designed transducer was characterized through modal analysis and harmonic response analysis of electrical-mechanical-acoustical multiphysics field coupling. Finally, a prototype of the capsule-shaped transducer was fabricated and measured, with the results compared with those of a spherical-shell transducer. A comparative analysis of the measured outcomes revealed that the capsule-shaped transducer exhibits coupling among three modes within the frequency range of 10 kHz to 30 kHz. The transmitting voltage response (TVR) values exceeded 143.5 dB, reaching a maximum of 151.9 dB, and the working frequency bandwidth achieved 18 kHz. Compared with the spherical-shell transducer, the average TVR value demonstrates a 3.7 dB improvement, and the bandwidth exhibited an 8.4 % increase. According to the experimental findings, the proposed capsule-shaped piezoelectric transducer offers advantages such as high voltage response, a broad working frequency band, compact size, low weight, and easy installation. This technology can be further applied to small underwater platforms, enhancing their acoustic detection range and spatial coverage performance.

Marine shaft optimization using surrogate models and multi-objective optimization

This paper aims to obtain an application software using Ansys software in which a static, dynamic, and modal analysis for the power transmission of ships is presented. The objective functions of this research are maximum static stress, maximum dynamic stress, shaft mass, and modal shaft frequency analysis. A complete, comprehensive, and generalizable model for metal shaft types is presented. Then, using the kriging response surface and multi-objective genetic algorithm (NSGA II), these goals are optimized simultaneously. In this research, the optimization parameters are geometric parameters of the shaft design, including the position of the supports and the inner and outer diameters of the shaft. As a result of this optimization, the shaft's maximum static and dynamic stresses are reduced by 36% and 42%, respectively. The shaft's mass, which is one of the most critical factors during the shaft and its vibrations, is reduced by about 9%. In this regard, the first natural frequency of the optimized shaft increased by about 28.5% compared to the initial shaft.

Utilizing data-driven algorithms for blind modal parameter identification of structures from output-only video measurements

In structural dynamics and vibration analysis, modal identification plays a pivotal role in understanding and characterizing the dynamic behavior of complex systems. Traditional modal analysis techniques heavily rely on accurate sensor placement and knowledge of the excitation forces, which may not always be feasible or practical in real-world scenarios. Recently, non-contact video-based modal analysis methods for structures with arbitrary complexity using computer vision techniques have gained much importance. But these methods need to know ahead of time where the structure's natural frequency ranges are, and they use steerable pyramids, which are complicated multi-scale image decomposition filters. To address these issues, a blind modal identification technique is suggested to extract the modal parameters (modal frequency and mode shapes) from the recorded structural vibration video signal. The proposed algorithm for unsupervised machine learning is the Non-Negative Matrix Factorization (NNMF) method, which is combined with the Generalized Complexity Pursuit (GCP) method for blind source separation. The NNMF algorithm is directly applied to the raw pixel-time series made from the video data to get the temporal components, which are then separated using GCP to find the individual modal frequencies and mode shapes. The above algorithm is first validated on a numerical model and then implemented on laboratory scale models (cantilever, single-degree, and multi-degree frame models). Finally, the proposed methodology is implemented on real-world recorded structural vibration videos to determine its noise sensitivity, such as the Tacoma Narrows bridge and the London Millennium footbridge. The modal parameters extracted are compared with those from the available literature for validation. The estimation errors obtained from all the validations are well below 1%, which makes the technique quite suitable and reliable for structural vibration monitoring by identifying and reproducing complex vibration modes.

Integrating a Physical Model with Multi-Objective Optimization for the Design of Optical Angle Nano-Positioning Mechanism

In light of recent advancements in synchrotron radiation technology and nano-technology, there has been a marked increase in the need for ultra-precision nano-positioning mechanisms. This paper presents a method that integrates physical models with multi-objective optimization for developing an optical angle nano-positioning mechanism. We begin by examining the actual motion law of the mechanism, based on kinematic principles. The outcomes from this kinematic analysis facilitate a static analysis of the flexible hinge, identified as a critical component of the mechanism. Subsequently, we establish a dynamic model for the entire mechanism. By employing the physical model as a base and combining it with the optimization algorithm, we identify the optimal design parameters for the mechanism. The design achieves a resolution of 50 nrad and meets the specified requirements. The first-order inherent frequency of the mechanism is approximately 43.75 Hz. There is a discrepancy of 2.63% from the finite element modal analysis results and a 3.33% difference from the theoretical analysis results, validating the reliability of the design method proposed in this study.

Sensor synchronized DIC: A robust approach to linear and nonlinear modal analysis using low frame rate cameras

Digital image correlation (DIC) is a non-contacting, optical method for measuring full-field displacements. Recently, there has been interest in DIC as a tool for experimental modal analysis. Currently DIC necessitates the use of high-speed cameras that satisfy the bandwidth requirements for the system under investigation. High-speed cameras, however, tend to be expensive, bulky, and low-resolution, thus limiting their application. In contrast, low-speed cameras tend to be cheaper, smaller, and higher-resolution. In this work an alternative approach that utilizes low-speed cameras is developed. The approach functions by synchronizing image capture against a high bandwidth reference sensor. This enables images to be precisely captured at prescribed moments in a waveform. A basic algorithm is developed for the synchronization, including an uncertainty analysis to estimate phase errors arising from the approach. The method is then demonstrated by using low-speed cameras to estimate the full-field amplitude response of a thin, cantilevered plate. This is achieved by alternating image capture between extremums during a swept-sine test. The excitation level is then increased to elicit a highly nonlinear response from the plate. Measurements are repeated to demonstrate that the approach works even when the system exhibits large harmonic distortions.

Static and modal analysis of sandwich panels with rib-reinforced re-entrant honeycomb

The low stiffness resulting from substantial core porosity within the re-entrant honeycomb sandwich panel can be addressed by introducing rib-reinforcements. To investigate its static and vibration characteristics, an energy-based 2D equivalent-homogenization model (2D-EHM) was derived through asymptotic analysis of the leading terms in the governing equations considering the energy-related characteristics. The accuracy of the constructed model for predicting the elastic bending performance of the sandwich panel was verified by comparing the results of a three-point bending experiment with 3D-printed specimens. Comparative analysis with a 3D FE model demonstrates that the 2D-EHM exhibits maximum errors of only 4.65% and 6.46%, respectively, in analyzing static deformation and natural frequency while improving computational efficiencies by up to 59- and 173-folds. Parameter analysis reveals that the performance of SP-RRH is minimally affected by the reinforcement-to-honeycomb wall thickness ratio. However, its performance is compromised when the honeycomb walls align in an equilateral triangle with the reinforcing walls. Comparing specific stiffness as well as static and vibration characteristics of sandwich panels with different core configurations (including traditional and diamond reinforced re-entrant honeycombs) shows that inclusion of rib reinforcements enhances deformation resistance and natural frequencies through increased specific stiffness. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing design of re-entrant honeycomb sandwich panels.

Enhancing Structural Vibration Damping in Marine Machinery: A Comprehensive Numerical Investigation with Modal and Harmonic Analysis

This article presents a comprehensive study on the damping of vibrations in a motor-pump assembly using viscoelastic and constrained layer damping treatments. The assembly's structural model, designed using SolidWorks software, is subjected to modal and harmonic analyses in ANSYS. The primary goal is to mitigate vibration amplitudes originating from the motor and pump to enhance the assembly's operational performance. Three damping treatments are investigated: Free Layer Damping (FLD), Sandwich Constrained Layer Damping (CLD), and a novel Multilayer CLD approach. The viscoelastic material is modeled using the Prony series method, and its properties are incorporated into the finite element analysis Results demonstrate that the application of damping treatments significantly reduces vibration amplitudes compared to the untreated structure. Among the treatments, the Multilayer CLD approach exhibits the highest damping efficiency, reducing the maximum amplitude by approximately 52% compared to the base structure. The study showcases the advantages of utilizing viscoelastic and constrained layer damping techniques for enhancing vibration control and operational stability in industrial assemblies. The research findings contribute to the field of structural dynamics and vibration control, offering valuable insights into the design and optimization of mechanical systems subjected to dynamic loads. This study opens avenues for further research and practical applications aimed at improving the performance and reliability of motor-pump assemblies and similar industrial equipment.

Cost saving analysis of prediabetes intervention modalities in comparison with inaction using Markov state transition model-A multiregional case study.

Prediabetes management is a priority for policymakers globally, to avoid/delay type 2 diabetes (T2D) and reduce severe, costly health consequences. Countries moving from low to middle income are most at risk from the T2D "epidemic" and may find implementing preventative measures challenging; yet prevention has largely been evaluated in developed countries. Markov cohort simulations explored costs and benefits of various prediabetes management approaches, expressed as "savings" to the public health care system, for three countries with high prediabetes prevalence and contrasting economic status (Poland, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam). Two scenarios were compared up to 15 y: "inaction" (no prediabetes intervention) and "intervention" with metformin extended release (ER), intensive lifestyle change (ILC), ILC with metformin (ER), or ILC with metformin (ER) "titration." T2D was the highest-cost health state at all time horizons due to resource use, and inaction produced the highest T2D costs, ranging from 9% to 34% of total health care resource costs. All interventions reduced T2D versus inaction, the most effective being ILC + metformin (ER) "titration" (39% reduction at 5 y). Metformin (ER) was the only strategy that produced net saving across the time horizon; however, relative total health care system costs of other interventions vs inaction declined over time up to 15 y. Viet Nam was most sensitive to cost and parameter changes via a one-way sensitivity analysis. Metformin (ER) and lifestyle interventions for prediabetes offer promise for reducing T2D incidence. Metformin (ER) could reduce T2D patient numbers and health care costs, given concerns regarding adherence in the context of funding/reimbursement challenges for lifestyle interventions.

Experimental comparison of three automatic operational modal analysis algorithms on suspension and floating bridges

Automatic operational modal analysis is necessary for long-term monitoring of structures when using modal information. Many algorithms have been proposed to accomplish this task; two examples are the fully automatic algorithm by Reynders et al. in 2012 and the semi-automatic algorithm by Kvåle and Øiseth in 2020; however, few in-depth direct comparisons exist. This work compares the two algorithms mentioned above with a new fully automatic algorithm recently developed by the authors, inspired by the best functioning elements from algorithms published since 2008 and following the standard three-step framework. The comparison is performed using 3600 experimental datasets from three real bridges – the Hardanger and Hålogaland suspension bridges and the Bergsøysund floating pontoon bridge – where the detections made by the algorithms are compared to the pre-defined reference modes of the bridges. The new algorithm (Dederichs 2023) performs equally to the Kvåle 2020 algorithm in correct detections and better than the Reynders 2012 algorithm. The two best algorithms detect the easily excited structural modes in over 90 % of the datasets. The Reynders 2012 algorithm is shown to have a more cautious approach to mode detections, making few correct detections and fewer errors. A sensitivity analysis of the criteria to compare detected modes to reference modes shows that this does not impact the comparison’s conclusions.

Modal Analysis of Automobile Wheels based on Lightweight Technology

Compared with traditional wheels, magnesium alloy wheels have the advantages of higher strength, toughness, lighter weight, beautiful appearance and so on. This paper takes magnesium alloy wheel as the research object, and uses Pro/e and ANSYS to help complete a lot of work such as 3D model construction and finite element analysis and calculation, to ensure that the magnesium alloy wheel can meet its strength requirements while being lightweight. The strength analysis and modal analysis of the designed wheel model are carried out under various working conditions. According to the analysis results, the first design model is further simplified, and then the calculation and analysis are repeated many times. It is found that the new model meets the mechanical properties requirements under multi-working conditions, ensures that the requirements of lightweight design are met, and provides relevant theories and methods for wheel design and structural optimization of other materials.

Variational mode decomposition–based nonstationary coherent structure analysis for spatiotemporal data

The conventional modal analysis techniques face difficulties in handling nonstationary phenomena, such as transient, nonperiodic, or intermittent phenomena. This paper presents a variational mode decomposition–based nonstationary coherent structure (VMD-NCS) analysis that enables the extraction and analysis of coherent structures in the case of nonstationary phenomena from high-dimensional spatiotemporal data. The VMD-NCS analysis decomposes the input spatiotemporal data into intrinsic coherent structures (ICSs) that represent nonstationary spatiotemporal patterns and exhibit coherence in both spatial and temporal directions. Furthermore, unlike many conventional modal analysis techniques, the proposed method accounts for the temporal changes in the spatial distribution with time. The performance of the VMD-NCS analysis was validated based on the transient growth phenomena in the flow around a cylinder. It was confirmed that the temporal changes in the spatial distribution, depicting the transient growth of vortex shedding where fluctuations arising in the far-wake region gradually approach the near-wake region, were represented as a single ICS. Furthermore, in the analysis of the quasi-periodic flow field around a pitching airfoil, the temporal changes in the spatial distribution and the amplitude of vortex shedding behind the airfoil, influenced by the pitching motion of the airfoil, were captured as a single ICS. Additionally, the impact of two parameters that control the number of ICSs (K) and the penalty factor related to the temporal coherence (α), was investigated. The results revealed that K has a significant impact on the VMD-NCS analysis results. In the case of a relatively high K, the VMD-NCS analysis tends to extract more periodic spatiotemporal patterns resembling the results of dynamic mode decomposition. In the case of a small K, it tends to extract more nonstationary spatiotemporal patterns.

Nonparametric approach for structural dynamics of high-voltage cables

High-voltage cables, as applied in the electro-mobility, are highly complex structures regarding their vibration behaviour. The high complexity leads to considerable uncertainty in models for a finite element method (FEM) simulation, which is shown, for example, in the contact modelling between the strands of the cable. To handle this uncertainty and model the structural dynamic, a nonparametric probabilistic approach (NPPA) with random matrices is used for the first time on high-voltage cables. This novel application of NPPA has an advantage over typical FEM analysis by using a more manageable simulation model and eliminating the need for a complex deterministic simulation model. Initially, the NPPA is analysed and enhanced, with an optimization for the dispersion parameter and a frequency shift introduced as methodological improvements. These enhancements result in a comparable scatter band of the frequency response. Following preliminary studies, the cable's dynamic behaviour is examined through experimental modal analysis, after which the dispersion parameters are computed. The NPPA is then applied to the simplified deterministic model with the calculated dispersion parameters, and a Monte Carlo simulation is done. As a result of this simulation, a scatter band is given. The results from the simulation are then compared to the results of an experiment. It is shown that the frequency response from the experiment is almost always in the inner area of the scatter band. Consequently, this innovative method can be used for a risk evaluation according to the path of the frequency response function and an evaluation of the structural behaviour.

Dynamic parameter identification of cold-formed storage rack systems using shaking table test

In this paper, 1:3 scale shaking table tests were performed on three cold-formed steel rack systems with three levels of different heights at the structural laboratory, Yildiz Technical University, to evaluate the factors that affect the dynamic characteristics of the rack systems that are exposed to different excitation frequencies representing the ground motion. The experiments were conducted using a small shaking table designed for this purpose. The dynamic characteristics of the racks were predicted with the help of the signal processing toolbox in MATLAB using the test output data. The results demonstrated that as the mass of the rack structure increases, the rack system vibration frequency caused by external excitation decreases. Also, the damping ratio of the rack systems increases with an increase in the rack height due to the increase in stiffness, and then it starts decreasing because the structure's stiffness begins to decrease with long-term vibration. The modal analysis results demonstrated that the peak-picking (PP) method outperformed the least-squares complex exponential (LSCE) and least-squares rational function estimation (LSRF) approaches in damping estimation. However, each approach achieved nearly identical results for the response frequency in the same mode.

Vibration Characteristics Analysis of Twin-Screw Compressor Shell Based on the Fluid-Solid Coupling Method

Under the action of the flow field force and the constraint reaction force of the negative rotor and the positive rotor, the twin screw compressor shell will produce vibration, which will affect the life of the parts and produce noise. The rotors restraint reaction force are calculated by fluid-structure coupling method. The shell inherent frequency is solved by modal analysis, and the shell resonance is analyzed during the rotors meshing process. On this basis, the flow field force and rotor constraint reaction force are used as the compressor shell vibration excitation sources, and the vibration response of the compressor shell under the action of excitation force is studied. The research results can provide some reference for the optimized design of compressor shell structure.

Effects of Weld Heat Input on Mechanical Characteristics of Low Carbon Sheet Steels

This study focuses on examining the variation in mechanical characteristics of low-carbon sheet steels when they are subjected to heat input from Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding. The weld heat input parameters, such as welding speed and current, were controlled through the TIG welding process. A finite element analysis was performed to evaluate the couple field thermomechanical effects of the weld heat line, using the Gauss heat flux approach for thermal heat variation across the weld heat-affected zone. The numerical study yielded results for weld heat-affected deflection, residual stress, and modal analysis through the finite element model. It was found that the ductility decreased and hardness increased in the fusion zone, as a function of weld current and speed. The residual stresses and their zone of influence, as determined by weld line parameters, were found to be key factors affecting deflection and natural frequencies in structural aspects of low carbon sheet steels.

Design and Nanoengineering of Photoactive Antimicrobials for Bioapplications: from Fundamentals to Advanced Strategies

AbstractCurrently, microbial infections have posed an arduous challenge to global public health, whereas the rise of antibiotic resistance is rendering traditional antibiotic therapies futile, prompting the development of new antimicrobial technologies. Photoactive nanomaterials have thus garnered a thriving interest for disinfection owing to their superior antibacterial efficaciousness, favorable biosafety, and rapidness and spatiotemporal precision in excreting bactericidal actions. The review summarizes recent advances and emerging trends in the design, nanoengineering, and bioapplications of photoactive antimicrobials. It commences by elaborating fundamental theories on bacterial resistance, and antibacterial mechanisms of nanomaterials and phototherapy. Subsequently, the regulation of the antibacterial effectiveness of photoactive nanomaterials is comprehensively discussed, centering on criteria and strategies for tuning photoabsorption spectra, photothermal conversion, and photocatalytic efficiency, alongside tactics for enabling synergistic therapies. This is followed by comparative analyses of techniques and modalities for synthesizing and engineering photoactive nanomaterials with diverse structures, forms, and functionalities. Thereafter, the state‐of‐the‐art applications of phototherapies across various medical sectors are portrayed, and key challenges and opportunities are finally discussed to spur future innovations and translation. This review is envisaged to provide useful guidance for devising and developing nanomaterials‐based photoresponsive antimicrobials with application‐specific materials properties and biological functions.

Temperature-assisted electromagnetic surface modes in graphene-based temperature sensitive metafilms

Graphene has the potential to manipulate surface modes in frequency bands from THz to mid-IR regions. Typically, due to single-atom thickness and low charge-carrier density, the thermal response of graphene is ineffective. Temperature-sensitive materials (TSMs) can play an active role in enhancing the thermal response of graphene-based devices. In the present work, graphene-based temperature-sensitive metafilms have been proposed for thermally tunable propagation of electromagnetic surface modes. A detailed analytical and numerical solution for temperature-dependent electromagnetic surface (even and odd) modes supported by the graphene-based temperature-sensitive metafilm has been studied. The Kubo’s formulation has been used to model optical conductivity (σ g ) while the hybrid Drude’s model is implemented to realize the indium antimonide (InSb) as temperature-sensitive material. To simulate the metafilm, the waveguide modal analysis approach was implemented, while the realization of the graphene sheets was achieved by the use of impedance boundary conditions (IBCs). The propagation characteristics for even/odd surface modes were analyzed under different values of temperature (T), chemical potential (µ c ), and thickness of metafilm (d). Further, the numerical results for even and odd surface modes under two phases of InSb [Insulator phase (T = 200 K) and metallic phase (T = 300 K)] were compared under different values of chemical potential (µ c ) and TSM film thickness (d). It is concluded that the propagation characteristics of surface modes are sensitive to the external temperature and can be tailored by tuning the temperature, chemical potential (µ c ), and TSM film thickness (d). Moreover, the degeneracy of the even and odd modes can be controlled by varying the temperature and TSM film thickness. The work is suitable for designing temperature-assisted dual channel waveguides, THz optical switches, THz optical logic designs, and flexible thermal-optical sensors.

Mechanism analysis of the influence of rotor-to-rotor interactions on global rotor noise

Existing research mainly investigated the influence of rotor-to-rotor interactions on the aerodynamics performance and noise level, but did not reveal the mechanism by which loading fluctuation significantly increases the noise below the rotor. In this study, first, an acoustic modal analysis method was established by mapping the source modal domain to acoustic modal domain, to investigate the global noise generated by a twin rotor considering the rotor-to-rotor interactions. Then, it was concluded from the simulation that the rotor-to-rotor interactions have little influence on the distribution of the sound sources, while they obvious change the noise in region at high elevation angle. Next, the method proposed was verified through experiments in an anechoic chamber, and the prediction error of overall sound pressure level (OASPL) was less than 7%. Finally, acoustic modal analysis reveals that the mechanism is attributed to the high radiation efficiency of the higher-order source modal components and dominant vertical directivity pattern of new acoustic modal components. Moreover, the initial azimuth angle of the rotors has an amplitude modulation effect on those acoustic modal components. When the difference in initial azimuth angle is π/L for rotors with L blades, the new modal components generated by different rotors cancel out each other for the odd-order blade passing frequency (BPF) noises.

Model refinements with experimental validation in piezoelectric plate actuators

The axisymmetric vibration analysis of circular plates with piezoelectric layers and step changes in plate thickness is conducted. For the chosen configurations, it is necessary to solve a coupled system of differential equations for extensional and flexural vibration to obtain accurate modal results. The adopted computational approach is based upon the classical transfer matrix method. Instead of employing analytical solutions in the form of e.g. Bessel functions, matrix exponentials of the system matrix are directly computed in the transfer matrices for finding highly accurate solutions. The developed approach has enabled the complete quantitative modal analysis in piezoelectric actuators. The procedure is firstly verified against available analytical results for natural frequencies and modes shapes in circular homogeneous plates, and by using finite element simulations for plates with asymmetric step changes in thickness. Ultimately, the developed approach is validated against experimental results of relevance to applications in piezoelectric synthetic jet actuation. The obtained numerical results for modal parameters and frequency response functions are in excellent agreement with the available analytical results, and with previous and newly presented in the paper experimental data, when considering the inherent uncertainty in parameter values. Based on extensive experimental results, realistic damping is introduced in the model of piezoelectric plate actuators. Importantly, it is shown that solutions of high accuracy can be obtained by a more general coordinate system than that traditionally linked to the plate neutral plane(s).

Experimental nonlinear model of a set of connecting elements in view of nonlinear modal coupling

The development process of mechanical systems involves the evaluation of its modes of vibrations in the frequency range of interest. In general, a linear modal analysis is sufficient to determine whether the system can operate in dynamic conditions. However, in some cases the assembly is composed of many subsystems connected through nonlinear connections which make the response depend on the amplitude and frequency of the excitation. In those cases, Linear Normal Modes (LNMs) are not sufficient to fully describe the dynamics of the system and Nonlinear Normal Modes (NNMs) must be used. Using substructuring techniques it is possible to treat nonlinear joints as independent subsystems. However, a reliable nonlinear model is needed to use this approach. The experimental characterization is the only way to correctly estimate the nonlinear behavior of the connection. Thus, the aim of this work is to develop and validate the experimental characterization to build an experimental nonlinear modal model of a strongly nonlinear element that can be used to connect different linear subsystems and can be regarded as a localized source of nonlinearity. The NNMs identification is performed using the single-point single-harmonic phase resonance method, and the experimental nonlinear modal model of the NLCE is obtained by retaining only the first harmonic term of each NNM in order to get nearly uncoupled modal equations.