Model updating using sum of squares (SOS) optimization to minimize modal dynamic residuals

This research studies finite element (FE) model updating through sum of squares (SOS) optimization to minimize modal dynamic residuals. In the past few decades, many FE model updating algorithms have been studied to improve the similitude between a numerical model and the as-built structure. FE model updating usually requires solving nonconvex optimization problems, while most off-the-shelf optimization solvers can only find local optima. To improve the model updating performance, this paper proposes the SOS global optimization method for minimizing modal dynamic residuals of the generalized eigenvalue equations in structural dynamics. The proposed method is validated through both numerical simulation and experimental study of a four-story shear frame structure.