Model Reduction and Sensor Placement Methods for Finite Element Model Correlation

The issue of model reduction is one that must often be overcome in order to perform the necessary checks as part of the spacecraft finite element model validation process. This work compares different reduction methods: specifically, the popular and longstanding Guyan method and the potentially more accurate system equivalent reduction expansion process. The influence of sensor set location on the quality of the reduced model is also considered, and the commonly applied methods to maximize kinetic energy and effective independence are applied. These investigations take the form of studies involving two large, unique, scientific spacecraft. The computational results are compared with experimental results that are also detailed in the paper. The findings highlight the potential issues with the accuracy of a Guyan reduced model in replicating the full system dynamics, even with a reasonably large sensor set. It is shown that this can be improved slightly in some circumstances through implementation of sensor...