Structural updating of the "Javelin" UAV using OMA

The paper presents a novel technique to perform real-time system identification using output-only analysis. The modal parameters estimated with such methodology are then used in a numerical modal updating process. The fixed wing UAV employed to conduct the test campaign is the "Javelin," developed by RMIT University. The data collected during Flight Vibration Test are used to demonstrate the robustness of the real-time system identification procedure using OMA. Cornerstone of the developed methodology is the PLSCF estimator which represents clear stabilization diagram and is computationally efficient. The numerical model updating process is required whenever the correlation between numerical model and experimental data is not acceptable. Generally, a group of preselected variables are varied to minimize the error function between the numerical and experimental model. The estimated modal parameters are used in modal updating process to develop a numerical model which represents the dynamical behaviour of the "Javelin" during flight condition.