Application of Pseudo-Random Test Signals and Cross Correlation to the Identification of Bulk Handling Plant Dynamic Characteristics

Abstract

In the determination of the dynamic characteristics of bulk handling systems the complexity of the problem usually makes experimental identification necessary. Experimental techniques which are based on statistical methods are known to be more reliable than conventional methods such as frequency response analysis. A statistical technique that employs a pseudo-random binary coded signal (prbs) to perturbate the system followed by cross correlation analysis may be used very effectively to identify the dynamic characteristics of the system even in the presence of extraneous noise signals. This paper describes this technique and discusses its application to two areas in the bulk handling field; the first deals with the determination of the natural frequencies of screw conveyors used for grain handling and the second deals with the identification of the dynamic characteristics of grain discharge chutes.