A frequency-domain method for identifying nonlinear vibrating structures

System identification, which refers to the construction of mathematical models from experimental data, plays a key role in the design process of engineering systems. In structural dynamics, the theoretical and experimental aspects of linear system identification have been successfully addressed since the early seventies, and mature analytical, computational and testing tools have emerged. Nonlinear system identification of vibrating structures has also enjoyed significant advances during the past few years. However, the common practice in industry is to ignore nonlinearities, arguably because their analysis is still regarded as impractical. The present work describes a rigorous nonlinear generalisation in the frequency domain of the classical subspace identification algorithms, termed FNSI method. This method is applicable to large-scale systems comprising strong nonlinearities, closely-spaced modes and potentially
high, nonproportional damping. Another distinct advantage of the approach is that it offers a convenient way to select an appropriate order for the nonlinear model by means of stabilisation diagrams. The FNSI method is demonstrated in this study using a complete satellite structure with nonsmooth nonlinearities, and a solar panel assembly exhibiting complex nonlinear stiffness and damping mechanisms.