83 research outputs found
A framework for the propagation of uncertainty in Transfer Path Analysis
Transfer Path Analysis (TPA) is a test-based methodology used to analyse the propagation of noise and vibration
in complex systems. In this paper we present a covariance based framework for the propagation of experimental
uncertainty in classical, blocked force, and component-based TPA procedures. The presence of both complex and
correlated uncertainty is acknowledged through a bivariate description of the underlying uncertainty. The framework
is summarised by a series of equations that propagate uncertainty through the various stages of a TPA procedure i.e.
inverse source characterisation, dynamic sub-structuring, and forward response prediction. The uncertainty associated
with rank ordering of source contributions is also addressed. To demonstrate the proposed framework a numerical simulation is presented, the results of which are compared against Monte-Carlo methods with good agreement obtained.
An experimental study is also presented, where a blocked force TPA is performed on an electric steering system. The
proposed uncertainty framework requires no additional experimental effort over and above what is performed in a
standard TPA and may therefore be readily implemented into current TPA practices
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