The Dynamics and Vibrations Research Group focuses on the study of dynamic behaviour in engineering systems through a combination of experimental and numerical approaches. Its expertise includes experimental and numerical modal analysis, dynamic system identification, and the investigation of nonlinear dynamic phenomena. Research activities encompass vibration analysis using high-speed camera recordings, fatigue assessment, and the development of methods for structural damage detection and lifetime prediction. The group also develops and applies advanced numerical techniques, including meshless methods and multiphase fluid modelling, with the aim of improving the reliability, safety, and performance of engineering systems and structures.

Experimental Dynamics and Measurements

• Experimental and Operational Modal Analysis (EMA / OMA)
• Non-contact vibration measurements using Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV scanning)
• Vibration and deformation analysis from high-speed camera recordings
• Noise measurement and analysis, including vibroacoustic diagnostics
• Experimental excitation of structures (modal shakers and impact hammer testing)

Numerical Modelling and System Identification

• Dynamic system identification (linear and nonlinear systems)
• Dynamic analysis of nonlinear systems
• Finite element methods, Meshless numerical methods and multiphase fluid modelling
• Correlation and updating of numerical models based on experimental data
• Numerical shape synthesis and geometry optimisation through advanced parameterisation techniques

Structural Reliability and Integrity

• Fatigue analysis and service-life prediction
• Structural health monitoring and damage assessment
• Vibroacoustic optimisation of engineering structures (e.g. ship structures)

Laboratories

• Vibrations and Noise Laboratory
• Machine Dynamics Laboratory

Equipment

• Advanced measurement and data acquisition systems, including:Polytec PSV-500 Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV)
• Laser Doppler Vibrometer Polytec OFV-1102 with OFV-200 controller
• Experimental modal analysis software packages (MEScope and ModalVIEW)
• Vibration excitation systems (TIRA shakers and Dongling ES-1-15 shaker)

• Numerical Synthesis of 3D Shapes with Advanced Geometry Parameterisation, Experimental Validation, and Feedback-Based Numerical Model Updating (HRZZ IP-2022-10-8856)
• Development of Innovative Composite Structures for Sound Insulation (CEKOM – IRI 1)
• Development of an Advanced Integrated Numerical Procedure for Optimising Ship Vibroacoustic Performance in Early Design Stages (CEKOM – IRI 2)
• Evolutionary Shape Synthesis with Integral and Partitioned 3D Phenotypes, Dynamic Parameterisation, and Meshless Modelling (HRZZ IP-2018-01-6774)

The group welcomes collaboration in the fields of dynamics, vibrations, noise control, and optimisation of structures and mechanical systems. Cooperation can be established through research and innovation projects, contract research, technical consultancy, expert assessments, and student and doctoral research projects.

 

Services and Collaboration Activities:

• Experimental modal and operational analysis of structures and machinery
• Laboratory and field measurements of vibrations and noise
• Identification of excessive vibration sources and development of corrective measures
• Numerical analyses (FEM), model validation, and model updating based on measurement data
• Assessment of fatigue, structural integrity, and remaining useful life
• Vibroacoustic optimisation of products and structures during early design stages

Academic Mobility and International Cooperation: The group actively supports international collaboration through the Erasmus+ programme, including: Student, doctoral researcher, and staff exchanges, Joint supervision of theses and dissertations, Guest lectures and research visits, Collaborative research initiatives

 

Target Sectors: Shipbuilding and marine engineering, mechanical and process industries, transportation systems, energy sector, civil and structural engineering

 

Deliverables: measurement and diagnostic reports, validated numerical models, engineering recommendations for vibration and noise reduction, reliability improvement strategies for engineering systems and structures