Structural dynamics - Analysis and testing techniques

Structures can be found in every field: they provide support for objects of all kinds. A mast, a bridge, a building, a car body, an airplane fuselage... are all structures of varying complexity, whose primary mission is to withstand their environment.

If the environment is static, i.e. not time-dependent, such as gravity or constant pressure, we need to check that the stresses remain within the limits admissible by the materials.

If the environment is time-dependent, we must first study the resulting movement. This dynamic behavior can, by amplification, give rise to levels well above those of static behavior. It is therefore important to master the prediction of these phenomena in order to understand, remedy and optimize them: this is the purpose of structural dynamics.

Forecasting can be based on two types of activity: analysis and experimentation. Neglecting one in favor of the other is dangerous: analysis alone is not sufficiently reliable, and experimentation alone does not give a complete picture of the situation. These two worlds must therefore be perfectly interwoven in the development of a structure.

This article is an introduction to analysis and testing techniques in structural dynamics. First, some generalities on analysis techniques will be presented, in order to pose the problem and talk about its resolution. Formulation is then developed, while remaining limited to the benefit of practical results and emphasizing the physical understanding of phenomena. Finally, experimental techniques are discussed in relation to analysis.