Correlate NVH simulation models to Experimental Data in tandem with Simcenter 3D?

Simcenter3D’s correlation solution type allows computation of a Modal Assurance Criteria (MAC) metric, that indicates the degree of consistency between a mode shape from reference data and a mode shape from work data. Reference data can be imported experimental data or previous simulation results, while the work data is typically the current simulation result.

• A MAC parameter is a scalar value between (0 – 1)
• A value near 1.0 indicates a high degree of correlation or consistency, between two mode shapes
• With identification of ‘like’ mode shapes, frequencies can be compared, to ensure correlation

MAC numbers allow for an automated identification of matching mode shapes, and provide thereafter a comparative of frequency values to help determine correlation for a given mode shape. This automated numeric method, allows for a more automatic streamlined approach to comparing NVH solutions. Extending this approach to incorporation in design space exploration with HEEDS, allows for a more rapid correlation process between your simulation model to test data.

The MAC correlation metric is directly available for extraction via response tagging through the Simcenter3D portal in HEEDS. In addition to the MAC values, reference and work frequencies/mode values are also available for extraction. Filters can be applied to extract minimum, maximum, or all values.

As an example of the benefit of this approach, the animations below show an optimized (correlated) solution through HEEDS for a gearbox, where the left animation is that of the experimental results and the right that of a correlated simulation.

Combining the Modal Assurance Criteria in an optimization with HEEDS, where the goal is to have simulation match experimental results, allows for correlating simulation models to test data simply, and efficiently. This capability can significantly streamline the development of your Digital Twin for NVH, leveraging the power of Simcenter3D with HEEDS.

For more information on this technique, please contact our Global HEEDS Technical Support Team for help on implementing on your problem: heeds.support.disw@siemens.com