Natural Frequency Determination and Modal Analysis of Prototype Structure of Honeycomb Sandwich Panels

A box shape prototype structure of honeycomb sandwich panels of aluminum 5052 facings was fabricated with one-shot fabrication technique which is an effective tool for cost reduction, reduced number of parts for assembly and constellation type space programs where mass production is required. Mathematical model was generated from Lagrange´s method and influence coefficient method. Eigen values were calculated for 3-dof system for validation of mathematical model generated for prototype structure. Sine sweep testing was performed on prototype structure to investigate the survivability of applied fabrication techniques and validation of mathematical model. Modal analysis, normalization of modes and orthonormalization of Eigen vectors were performed to calculate the mode shapes, modal matrix and uncoupled equations of motion in principal coordinate system.