Perspectives of second-order blind identification for operational modal analysis of civil structures

Innovative methods for output-only estimation of the modal properties of civil structures are based on blind source separation techniques. In the present paper attention is focused on the second-order blind identification (SOBI) algorithm and the influence of its analysis parameters on computational time and accuracy of modal parameter estimates. These represent key issues in view of the automation of the algorithm and its integration within vibration-based monitoring systems. The herein reported analyses and results provide useful hints for reduction of computational time and control of accuracy of estimates. The latter topic is of interest in the case of single modal identification tests, too. A criterion for extraction of accurate modal parameter estimates is identified and applied to selected experimental case studies. They are representative of the different levels of complexity that can be encountered during real modal tests. The obtained results point out that SOBI can provide accurate estimates and it can also be automated, confirming that it represents a profitable alternative for output-only modal analysis and vibration-based monitoring of civil structures. © 2014 C. Rainieri.