Application of a multivariable input–output subspace identification technique in structural analysis

In this paper a multivariable subspace-based identification method is applied to experimental modal analysis. The method shows its efficiency in the identification of data which is contaminated by a great amount of external noise. Numerical simulation is used to present the main characteristics of the method and compare its performance against other techniques currently used in experimental modal analysis. The subspace identification method is also applied to data from a modal test of a practical engineering structure.