Estimating the Parameters of a Structure by Using its Dynamic Response: A Study Based on a Cantilever Beam

This work explores a number of approaches for estimating the parameters of a structure from measurements of its dynamic response. The study represents an initial step in a larger framework aiming for improving processes associated with model updating and the development of digital twins. In this study, the parameters of a cantilever beam, i.e. modulus of elasticity Ε and density ρ have been determined from the dynamic response calculated due to a harmonic load applied at a fixed location on the beam. The response in this study is calculated from a numerical simulation to initially examine two different approaches, based on minimization of LSR values and the use of Genetic Algorithms GA, before relying on measurement of responses for future investigations. The cantilever beam has been modelled as a finite beam based on a harmonic analysis using the dynamic stiffness method.