Correlation and updating of an unmanned aerial vehicle finite element model

In this paper the numerical models of the structural components of an UAV are separately correlated with their experimental counterparts and then updated, in order to improve the correlation. A sensitivity-based updating method is considered and its capabilities to identify changes of the design parameters that are physically acceptable investigated. The method iteratively minimizes a residual vector defined on the dynamic properties of the considered structure, natural frequencies and mode shapes, in order to find the unknown vector of updating parameters. The structure under investigation is the Golden Eagle UAV, designed, manufactured and operated by Clarkson University to perform a variety of scientific research flight campaigns including air-quality and wind profiling measurements. Individual components (wings, fuselage, horizontal tail, vertical tails and tail booms) have been tested, correlated and updated.