General Load Data Analysis

Load data on system or component level is usually represented as time signals. This applies to field data and rig loads as well as to numerical simulation. The analysis process starts with the detection and correction of irregularities due to possible problems in the measurement process. Often, spikes, drifts or offsets need to be corrected. Next, rainflow-type algorithms and spectral analysis is applied to extract important characteristics of the load signals. Which methods are to be applied with which priority depends on the loads as well as on the system.

Eigen frequencies of the system or component as well as the signal frequencies of the loads play an important role. Moreover, the analysis of the correlation of multi-input signals is very important. For the subsequent statistical analysis, scalar key values such as pseudo-damage values are calculated. All of these load data analysis methods are applied within many projects at ITWM and extended or modified if necessary. Besides doing projects within the derivation of reference loads for durability, we also deal with applications in condition monitoring or energy efficiency and consumption.

A handbook published among others by employees of our institute describes many load data analysis procedures and their use in the overall process:

»Guide to Load Analysis for Durability in Vehicle Engineering«