Experimental Structural Dynamics
Robert E. Coleman, Senior Applications Specialist for Signalysis, Inc., has released his book “Experimental Structural Dynamics: An Introduction to Experimental Methods of Characterizing Vibrating Structures”. As an Introduction to Experimental Methods of Characterizing Vibrating Structures, this book is a valuable tool toward developing an understanding of the theory underlying the simple vibratory process, as well as developing the concepts allowing application of this understanding to the analysis of any complicated vibratory process for the most complex structure.
About the Book
It is not uncommon to find engineers in test labs or design groups who have not had occasion to use the mathematical tools acquired in college. When suddenly faced with vibration issues they find themselves ill equipped to get a solid grasp of the vibration process. This technical reference provides access to vibration theory, initially at a very elementary level, then progressing from basic analytical formulations toward the more mature mathematical representations associated with eigenvectors and the Fourier Transform.
Mode shapes are introduced without any reference to the eigenvalue problem, but connected immediately to simple coordinate transformations in two and three dimensions. This allows a rather simple picture of operators, ultimately leading to a straight forward derivation of the Frequency Response Function (FRF) formula.
It is hoped that many engineers will find their way back into a more analytical approach to vibration problems. Experienced analysts and academics were given consideration as well, providing fresh viewpoints from time to time, such as the development of modal force as a contravariant vector, providing a detailed view of the FRF as a superposition of modal FRFs.
About the Author
Robert E. Coleman pursued a career largely in aerospace engineering, although his academic background is entirely physics. His work has spanned 44 years, beginning with Polaris Rocket testing at the U.S. Naval Propellant Plant, and continues with Signalysis, Inc. His most significant effort may have been as part of NASA’s SMIS project while working at Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX. Here, analytical finite element and experimental modal test methods were combined to analyze Shuttle Orbiter structural integrity after space flight missions. Coleman was presented the Astronaut’s Silver Snoopy Award for his contribution. Some of the NASA technology has been brought to bear at Signalysis, using intrinsic vibration characteristics to detect product defects on assembly lines of numerous plants across the U.S. and abroad.
