Structural dynamics of high-speed slip ring signal receiver for rotor dynamics testing: modeling, analysis, and experiments

Abstract This study focuses on the high-speed slip ring signal receiver (HS2SR), a crucial component in rotor dynamics testing where lateral vibrations can destabilize signal reception. To address this, a theoretical model describing the transverse vibration of the HS2SR is developed. The model incorporates boundary and continuity conditions that account for the hollow and slotted structure of HS2SR, providing a comprehensive framework for analyzing its natural characteristics. The model is validated through modal experiments and finite element analysis, confirming its effectiveness in predicting the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the HS2SR. A detailed parametric analysis reveals the significant influence of slotting, slot position, and slot length on the natural characteristics of HS2SR, with distinct variation patterns observed in the x – O – y and x – O – z planes. For the HS2SR sample with free-free boundary conditions, the maximum errors between the results obtained using the theoretical model and those from experiments and finite element simulations are −3.94% and 1.48%, respectively, demonstrating a high level of accuracy. Additionally, the presence of the slot reduces the natural frequency of the HS2SR sample under free-free boundary conditions by 33.14% in the x–O–y plane and by 15.41% in the x–O–z plane. Furthermore, due to the influence of the additional bending moment, the natural frequency in the x–O–y plane is more sensitive to changes in the slot position and length. The findings emphasize that slotting-induced bending moments and stiffness alterations play a dominant role in shaping the natural frequencies and vibration behavior.