How to Correlate Shock Analysis with Test
Step-by-step workflow for correlating shock analysis with test using time histories, SRS, modal behaviour, interface conditions and uncertainty evidence.
Purpose
Use this guide when a mechanical shock or transient-dynamics task must be converted from a requirement into a controlled engineering workflow. Keep the physical interface, units, bandwidth and required evidence visible at every step.
Step-by-step method
- Confirm test article, fixture, bolt state, axis and sensor locations match the model
- Import the raw or approved processed time histories with known filtering and sample rate
- Compare interface input first before comparing remote responses
- Compare natural frequencies/modes where they can be identified
- Compare acceleration time histories and SRS over a common trusted bandwidth
- Investigate phase/time, joint stiffness, damping and fixture modes before tuning parameters
- Update only physically justified model parameters
- Repeat the comparison at independent locations or another test state
Checks before sign-off
- Input reproduction is demonstrated
- Sensor bandwidth and mounting are credible
- Correlation is not based on one SRS curve alone
- Model updates improve more than one independent response
Common mistakes
- Treating peak acceleration as the complete environment
- Using undocumented damping or filtering
- Failing to reproduce the exact solver/test input
- Reporting a peak without checking time resolution and physical load path