Application of rotation rate sensors in an experiment of stiffness 'reconstruction'

Preliminary results of an application of rotation rate sensors in dynamic identification of a vibrating beam are reported. Three rotational sensors, measuring the response of a cantilever beam to kinematic harmonic excitations are applied in the reconstruction of its stiffness. A successful reconstruction of 15% stiffness drops is demonstrated. With the development of angular sensors and the decrease in their cost one can expect further progress of this new area of vibration-based damage detection. (technical note)